John testified about him when he shouted to the crowds, “This is the one I was talking about when I said, ‘Someone is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before me.’”  John 1:15

The birth of John the Baptist happened months before the birth of Jesus. Elizabeth was pregnant first and was well into her pregnancy when Mary conceived through the overshadowing of the Holy Spirit. And yet, John told the people that Jesus existed before he did. The only possible explanation is that John was not talking about conception dates or birth dates. Something far greater was being revealed, and I believe they could tell that his reference was to something otherworldly by the breathless tone in John’s voice. 

Now, I know what you may be thinking. Nowhere in these verses does it say that John was breathless. Yet, when I imagine how John delivered this news while trying to comprehend the eternal storyline of Jesus, it is impossible for me to believe that he could be nonchalant. 

The Gospel of John Movie and The Chosen series unveil this scene in the most stunning way possible. I’ve watched them hundreds of times, and each time I see John speak, I remember Jesus’ words that ‘John was a lamp, burning and shining.’ His ministry was so short, but his impact was massive. 

It begs me to ask myself whether or not I’ve ever talked about Jesus this passionately. Does my ministry reflect such urgency? It is a litmus test for my own soul, and I assess myself often to see if I feel the degree of intensity I witness in John. 

Lord, I don’t want my testimony ever to be casual. Turn me into a burning flame. Amen