Carrying Sandals

I heard Pastor E.V. Hill, a black Baptist pastor from Los Angeles who could really preach it, talk one time about a trip he took overseas with Rev. Jesse Jackson.  It was a volatile area and, as he said, Jesse always draws a crowd.  One time the crowd got so intense that E.V. got pushed away from Jesse.  In the shuffle, E.V. got unsettled and did the only thing he knew to do.  He said "I am with him." and pointed at Jesse.  Once  those around him realized that, they backed away and let him through.  He talked about how, based on his own merits, he was lost in the crowd, but as long as he pointed to Jesse and said, "I'm with him,"  he had no trouble.  His authority was based on Jesse, not on E.V.  He went on to share how that reminded him of his ministry. In ministry, in the pulpit, or the work of the Lord, his authority is not based on himself, but on Jesus.  Jesus opens the doors and gives the access.

As I read about John the Baptist this morning, I think about his unique position.  He was to prepare the people for the Lord, and then step out of the way, when Christ came.  He did well. He warned them by telling them to prepare their hearts.  Then he made sure that they were looking for the Lord and not him. Notice what he says in  Matthew 3:11- “I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire."  John knew his only authority and only duty was to serve the Lord.
How does that apply to us?  First, we need to be willing to serve Him.  It is easier to talk about than it is to do. Second, we need to realize what it is all about it.  It is not about us. It is all about Him. 
Serve Him today and know your place.  When you do, you may be surprised at the places He can use you.