Prophets told of the Messiah’s coming throughout the Old Testament. Then 400 years of silence—no prophets or prophetic words. The heavens were like brass—until Gabriel broke through and announced the birth of John the Baptist.
John was peculiar, many prophets were but I think John topped them with his wilderness living, locusts and honey diet, and unusual garb. And yet, his message was received:
“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near” (Matthew 3:2).
Isaiah told us John would do this to prepare the way for Jesus and that many would turn back to the Lord. And Gabriel told the same thing to John’s father, who erupted in prophetic praise at his birth:
You will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him, to give his people the
knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins (Luke 1:76-77).
Like the Jews of Jesus’ day, we live in a time of great darkness and also look for the Messiah. John’s message hasn’t changed for those of us who wait.
Come to Jesus, the Savior who came and is coming again.
He will give you forgiveness, salvation, and fulness of life.
BARBARA HIGBY 