"He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, I am not the Messiah." -John 1:20 (NIV)

In an age where everyone is building a "personal brand," John the Baptist shows us a radical alternative:

He knew who he was, because he knew what he was not. John had a powerful following. Crowds gathered. Leaders came to question him. He had every opportunity to take the spotlight, to soak in praise, to elevate his name.  When asked if he was the Messiah, he answered -"I am not." When asked if he was Elijah, He answered, -"I am not."  when they asked: "Are you a prophet?" Again, He answered "no." 

John sets an example for us all. John knows instinctually who he is. He also knows who he is not.  From this comes great freedom and liberation to be what he is; a messenger. John embraces his position with humility. God has imbued us all with our own unique gifts. Recognizing them and us as stewards of those gifts, is the first step in being truly authentic. What gifts has God gifted you with? Using them IS your joy, your liberation, and your purpose!