“Then they (the priests and the Levites) said to him, “Who are you?”

…(John) said, “ I am a voice crying out in the wilderness…” (John 1:22-23)

This past Wednesday, some celebrated the birth of John the Baptist. Now there are some cultures that truly celebrate it-with parades, fanfare, etc. Most may not give it a second thought. I know when I first saw the day in my church’s calendar; I thought it was interesting but not important to my Christian walk. In fact, John the Baptist is probably not a favorite biblical person. In my tradition, he is presented yearly during the Advent season. Even as he is “common” during Christmas, he enters the season — and our lives — as an unwelcome guest. So why think about him! I believe, because he is “the voice” and we are “the voice.”

What does the Bible mean that John the Baptist is “the voice?” According to the prophet Malachi, judgment would come with the appearing of “the voice” or messenger and “the Lord” (Malachi 3:1). In fact Malachi’s name means “My Messenger.” Some may conclude that Malachi the prophet is “the voice.” The only problem was that there was no messenger or appearance of the Lord after his appearance. However, Malachi 4: 5-6 clarifies the earlier statement. The messenger or voice is the prophetic return of Elijah the prophet. Either Elijah or a prophet like Elijah would come to prepare the way of God. According to the New Testament, John the Baptist is the Prophet Elijah — Matthew, Mark and Luke-or the prophetic voice — John’s Gospel. He testifies to the things necessary for true repentance in preparation for the Lord to come forth and purify the Temple, Israel and world.

Working with the assumption that Jesus is the Lord incarnate, John fulfilled his calling. After he had served his purpose, he stated, “He (Jesus) must increase, but I (John) must decrease” (John 3:30). As a voice, he had power. But a voice is only as powerful as the words or word that stands behind it. John’s glory was Jesus’ glory. Even though John the Baptist passed away, the message and Word of God would not.

So what does that mean for us? We, like John the Baptist, are called to be the voice of the word of God — Jesus. Daily I meditate on the words of Zechariah — John the Baptist’s father — in Luke 1:76, “You, child, will be called a prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way.” Every time I share the Good News of Jesus or Baptize or bless, I am the voice, I am John the Baptist preparing the way of the Lord. This is not to give myself glory in my position but the opportunity for the Jesus to increase in the life of others.

Why remember the birth of John the Baptist? He is an important model to “prepare the way.” He was born into a world that was broken, needing challenge and life — so are we. He was a person who had a place and calling in this world so that the kingdom of God can come — we need this calling and place. Finally, he knew his limitations and the source of his power — we tend to forget this. May the Holy Spirit that set ablaze John the Baptist, kindle in all of us the power of God and purpose for your life this day and every day!