I love how John the Baptist, a man with a solid testimony, who knew his mission, who was related to the Savior, is still just another normal guy baptizing those who wanted to make the covenant. But when he sees Jesus, his cousin, walking towards him in the water, he stands stunned, timid, unbelieving, and unsure. His voice quivers as his first words are "I have need to be baptized of thee...Comest thou to me?"
My take-aways:
- Even the most awesome can be humbled at a task given them. John did not know if he was right for the job. I've felt that :-)
- When something in our life has become routine it is possible for events to bring us back to the magnitude of their importance. John had baptized many, and I'm sure he never took it lightly, but still he had a moment of reconnection with it's purpose when even Jesus came to him for it. Does walking into church while holding my sons hand have significance beyond what I feel? Can I reconnect with the magnitude of what I do as a husband, father, and priesthood holder?
- Obedience really is simple, and pure elation can come from simple obedience. John sees a man wanting baptism, who he's convinced he should be baptized by, but for going ahead himself and performing just one more baptism, despite his doubts, he experiences an awesome outpouring of Heavenly Father's approval.
I live that you watch these with Pratt. :)
ReplyDeleteScott, Thank you for posting that video, I have seen it many times (especially as the ward mission leader) but this time around was very powerful to me. I followed your advice and focused on "feeling" what was happening. How powerful. I really appreciate the principles you took from this video and how they apply specifically to your life- I just thought that everything you wrote was really inspired. It especially relates to me as a dad who also needs to remember the magnitude of what I do as a Father. also thought about what it was like for the people there to hear God's voice. I know I have stood in wonderment when I have witnessed spiritual witnesses during priesthood blessings, during conference talks, or in the temple. I can honestly say that I too have heard the voice of God and felt the witness of the spirit of the reality of the Father and the Son. Thank you!
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