John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord.’”(John 1:23)

A recent television series revolved around a man whose identity had been electronically erased by his enemies. He spent the entire show trying to reestablish who he was, with very little success.

John the Baptist’s identity was questioned critically by many of those who heard him preach and saw the influence that he had over others. However, the questions of those who questioned him did not intimidate John. He had a very clear sense of who he was and who he was not. Most importantly, he knew the purpose for which he had been placed on earth—to proclaim the message of repentance in preparation for the coming of Jesus Christ. Nothing could distract him from that purpose.

As Christians, we also may face times when people question us about who we are and what right we have to speak on certain issues, especially if those issues are controversial ones. In those times, it is important for us to draw on our sense of who we are and who we are not. We need to prayerfully examine and accept what God has called us to do and avoid that which God has called someone else to do. We have God’s authority to speak the Word and make God’s will and love known to a troubled world. Without that acceptance of our calling, we have no identity in God.

Just who are you and what is God calling you to do?

God of guidance, show us the way You would have us walk and guide us on the path that You place before us!