Nothing deterred this wilderness preacher from his single-minded devotion to Jesus. From the beginning, John made clear that he was not the Messiah (Christ). His ministry was about pointing people to Jesus.

When Jesus came to John to be baptized, John’s voice rang out, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” Neither petty arguments nor the fact that his followers left him to follow Jesus (John 3:26) caused John to lose focus. He simply said, “He must become greater; I must become less.” I love the words of John 3:29, which say John was full of joy because he had heard the bridegroom’s voice.

At this time of year, children and adults often ask, “What did you get for Christmas?” How quickly we lose focus on Jesus, who came to give us salvation. Instead, we think of ourselves and the things we have or don’t have. Ask yourself today, “Am I full of joy because I have heard the Savior’s voice?”

One day Jesus will return. Then all who have heard his voice and have faith in him as the Savior will join with God’s people, singing, “Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory!” (Revelation 19:6-7). What a day that will be!