Twelve Days of Christmas at Ararat - Day 6: John the Baptizer was also sent from God.

”There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.“

‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭6‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Soon after Peter had pronounced by the Spirit that Jesus was, indeed, the Christ, Jesus took Peter, James, and John up on a high mountain. On that mountain, they saw Jesus transfigured before their very eyes. As well, they heard a Voice speaking from heaven, confirming that Jesus was indeed, the beloved Son of God!

The realization of Who Jesus truly was, led the disciples to ask a question concerning a messianic prophecy.

”And His disciples asked Him, saying, “Why then do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” Jesus answered and said to them, “Indeed, Elijah is coming first and will restore all things. But I say to you that Elijah has come already, and they did not know him but did to him whatever they wished. Likewise the Son of Man is also about to suffer at their hands.” Then the disciples understood that He spoke to them of John the Baptist.“

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭17‬:‭10‬-‭13‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

The prophecy being questioned by the disciples, was from Malachi:

”“Behold, I send My messenger, And he will prepare the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, Will suddenly come to His temple, Even the Messenger of the covenant, In whom you delight. Behold, He is coming,” Says the Lord of hosts.“

‭‭Malachi‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭NKJV

So, we see that Jesus confirmed that John was operating in the spirit of Elijah. Now, John the Baptizer was not Elijah, but operated in his anointing.

Indeed, John himself, affirmed that he was the prophesied “voice crying in the wilderness.”

”Then they said to him, “Who are you, that we may give an answer to those who sent us? What do you say about yourself?” He said: “I am ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Make straight the way of the Lord,” ’ as the prophet Isaiah said.”“

‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Recently, as we celebrated the birth of Jesus, we heard the story of Mary visiting her relative, Elizabeth, who had miraculously conceived a child in her old age. Now that child was a zealous baptizer, urging people to repent, preparing the way for the ministry of Jesus.

You see, the Lord not only sent his beloved Son, but also sent the one who would prepare His way, just as had been prophesied.

Remember, everyone who will yield their lives to the purposes of God, will find that they too can be part of the wonderful tapestry of God’s will.

Peace to you.

Jesus is coming! Get ready for Him!

#12daysatararat