The Gospel according to John 1:29-34
John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. He is the one of whom I said, 'A man is coming after me who ranks ahead of me because he existed before me.' I did not know him, but the reason why I came baptizing with water was that he might be made known to Israel." John testified further, saying, "I saw the Spirit come down like a dove from the sky and remain upon him. I did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, 'On whomever you see the Spirit come down and remain, he is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.' Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God."
Reflection
"A man is coming after me who ranks ahead of me because he existed before me." (John 1: 30)
Why did John the Baptist say that when he is older than Jesus? Wasn't Mary visiting Elizabeth when she was pregnant and John leapt for joy in her womb at the sight of Mary?
Perhaps when John used the word "existed" he meant the mystery of God the Creator. The God who created us from nothing out of love existed before any of us. He wanted us to know of His love for us. How would someone know that you love them? You tell them! And Being the Almighty Creator He tells us with style and flair through His "living Word" - Jesus.
So how do you respond to the grandest love confession in history?
