John answered them all, “I baptize you with water. But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
Luke 3:16 NIV
John was a mighty prophet. He boldly announced God’s coming kingdom, preparing the way for Jesus, the Messiah. And he was uncompromising in his commitment to proclaim the word of God. As Jesus said elsewhere, he was the greatest of men (Matt. 11:11).
And that makes what John says in this verse all the more meaningful. John resisted the temptation to think too highly of himself. That would have been so easy to do because of the crowds surrounding him and his ministry’s fruitfulness. But he never lost sight of who was coming after him and his insignificance in comparison.
John was a faithful servant who always pointed people to Jesus. And he was a good example for all who seek to serve our Lord. Be faithful, as a servant of the Lord Jesus, to always point people to him, resisting the temptation to take credit for what he is doing through you. He alone is worthy of worship and praise.
