You Version Bible
Devotional
He is Greater Today we reflect on the beginning of Jesus’ earthly ministry. To minister on earth, Jesus took on an ordinary body that is but dust and ashes. What does it mean to you that the one who is greater than John the Baptist gave up everything to identify with you? From an Africa Study Bible proverbs and stories note: John explained that the baptism of the Spirit that Jesus would bring was much greater than baptism by water. John recognized that Jesus was God’s Son and therefore greater than himself. John was ready to surrender his authority and receive Jesus’ baptism rather than seize the moment to increase his own fame. A Chichewa proverb from Malawi translates to say, “An elder is an elder; a tortoise is never easily crushed by a stone.” A tortoise may not look strong, but it is difficult to kill because of its strong shell. Similarly, an elder may not have the outward appearance of greatness, but inwardly the elder is great. Jesus was fully human with all the challenges and physical weaknesses of other human beings. John knew how great Jesus’ ministry would be from the very beginning. Today: We learn from John the Baptist how to always point people to Jesus. Reflect on what you do for God. In which ways might you make ministry about your own plans and ambitions? What steps will you take to point people to Jesus instead of to yourself?
Mark 1:4-8
4And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 5The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the River Jordan. 6John wore clothing made of camel’s hair, with a leather belt round his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. 7And this was his message: ‘After me comes the one more powerful than I, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. 8I baptize you with1:8 Or in water, but he will baptize you with1:8 Or in the Holy Spirit.’
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