bear witness

On this, the 2nd week of the advent season, portions of John 1 were read to remind us of John the Baptist's involvement in the coming of Christ. A verse I read maybe hundreds of times over jumped out at me as I listened this morning.

He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light. ~John 1:8

John had one purpose during the time gifted him by God: bear witness to Christ. He wasn't there to start a revolution or gain a following. His very words to the religious folk around him was a testament to that truth.

I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, "Make straight the way of the Lord" ~John 1:23

What jumped out at me was my general attitude towards my purpose as a follower of Christ. Jesus does tell His followers that they are "the light of the world." We are called to let our light shine to those around us so they "may see our good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Unfortunately, my pride tends to place me in the position of the source of that light. I think I am the one who is shining instead of the indwelling Spirit. I need an attitude like that of John the Baptist.

I am expected to bear witness to the light. When it is faithfully shining through me, I give the credit to the Spirit for I know what I am capable of in my own strength. I don't shine forth in order to hear the praises of men or ignite a cause to take the world by storm. I shine to glorify the name of Jesus Christ. I shine to see Him gain the praises of men and take this world by storm.