Scripture
“I baptise you with water but he will baptise you with the Holy Spirit.”

Observation
The beginning of the Good News about Jesus Christ.

The story starts with a fulfilled prophecy. John the Baptist is preaching and baptising people in the Jordan River. As spectacular and intriguing as he is, John is not the main event. He announces the coming of someone greater, one who will baptise with the Holy Spirit.

Application
Mark cuts to the chase. There is no preamble here about babies and shepherds, angels and wise men. Ancient prophecies are about to be fulfilled and we need to pay attention.

John points his followers to someone greater. Our ministry is the same- pointing to Jesus. He is the focus of the story.

To be a christian is to ensure that Jesus always remains the focus of our story. Sin is letting ourselves become the focus.

Let's always make sure that our words and actions point to Him.

Prayer
Lord may I be like John the Baptist in that all of my days are spent in preparing the way for you to come into people's lives. Help me to speak of Jesus- the “someone greater.” Amen.