Just One Voice

Scripture

The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God, as it is written in Isaiah the prophet: ‘I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way’ – ‘a voice of one calling in the wilderness, “Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.” ’ And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptised by him in the River Jordan. (Mark 1:1-5 NIVUK) 

Just One Voice

It’s always good to be reminded that our voice, however small it seems, does matter in our families, communities, businesses, workplaces … wherever we spend the hours of our day. 

The maelstrom of opinions, anger, fear and frustration that floats so many of our communication boats can leave us storm-tossed and feeling beaten up. And yet a word of kindness spoken in a frenzied exchange, an encouragement to persevere, an expression of gratitude for good work done or gifts given – all soften the harshness of our landscape.  

Although he wasn’t gentle in tone, I’ve always found John the Baptist a compelling figure. He knew he was one voice calling out in a wilderness of religious and social practice for a profound change in direction – to live truth, justice and mercy and turn from their opposites.  

We are so far removed from his days of preparation for Jesus’ ministry – bulldozing the roads of a spiritual wilderness, smoothing out access to love, kindness and forgiveness. He ended up dying young at the hands of a drunken despot but was it all for nought? Did he make a difference? Jesus said he was a great man, that’s enough for me.  

We are each just one voice, sometimes in a wilderness, sometimes in an abundance of riches, but we can tune in to the call of the Spirit to speak truth in love when we are given the opportunity. 

A Prayer for Today

Loving God who came to be one of us by letting John’s rough hands baptize you with all the others seeking forgiveness. You weren’t too proud to be one of us and now you invite us to be one of your siblings in love and faith. Help us speak truth and love, kindness and forgiveness as we walk in the roads of anger and fear in our world…. For Jesus’ sake