Luke records that John’s ministry was “in the desert…around the Jordan (River)”. John lived and travelled within a region that was often travelled by Jews going to and from Galilee and Jerusalem. The gospel can be preached anywhere, even in the desert. God will send those he has chosen to those who preach the gospel. Yet, we also need to be practical by going where others go and being easily available.
John did not prepare people for the Messiah and the coming kingdom by supernatural ways, spiritual mysteries, or miracles. John’s ministry was simple and practical. John studied the word and applied it to his life. Jesus taught, “The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observations, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is within you.” (Luke 17:20)
What does God want for me? What should I do? Where should I go? I do not know, therefore I wait till I do. Time does not stop while I wait and wonder. These questions are important, but often not answered. Most do not get the full, complete description that answers all the questions. I have this moment and today. I can plan for tomorrow, but living right today should not be put off. Allow the Word of God to come, keep God within, and do what is right now. The simple and practical can be powerful, used by God, too.
