Universal Utterings

for January 2, 2025

A Godcast

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01-02-25 John 1 v1923 Make straight the way of the Lord

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The Gospel of John Chapter One V- 19 through 23

19 And this is the testimony of John. When the Jews from Jerusalem sent priests and Levites [to him] to ask him, “Who are you?” 20 he admitted and did not deny it, but admitted, “I am not the Messiah.” 21 So they asked him, “What are you then? Are you Elijah?” And he said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.” 22 So they said to him, “Who are you, so we can give an answer to those who sent us? What do you have to say for yourself?” 23 He said: “I am ‘the voice of one crying out in the desert, “Make straight the way of the Lord,”’ as Isaiah the prophet said.”

In John 1:19-23, we encounter an important moment in the Gospel narrative where John the Baptist clarifies his identity and mission. The Jewish leaders send priests and Levites to question him, seeking to understand whether he is the Messiah, Elijah, or the Prophet foretold in their Scriptures. John categorically denies these titles, instead identifying himself as “the voice of one crying out in the desert,” a direct reference to the prophecy from Isaiah 40:3. This self-identification is significant, as it emphasizes his role as a forerunner to the coming of Jesus, the Messiah.

John’s declaration serves multiple purposes. First, it highlights the importance of prophecy and fulfillment in the biblical narrative, connecting the Old Testament prophecies with the New Testament reality. By positioning himself as the voice in the wilderness, John underscores the urgency of repentance and preparation for the arrival of the Lord. His call to the people is not just a mere announcement; it is a clarion call to spiritual awakening and readiness.

Furthermore, John’s humility is noteworthy. He does not seek glory for himself but directs all attention to Christ, recognizing that his mission is to prepare the way for the One who is greater than he. This selfless attitude is a model for believers today, reminding us that our lives should reflect Christ and point others to Him.

In a world longing for hope and meaning, John’s proclamation resonates deeply. He embodies the anticipation of the coming Messiah, a theme that remains relevant as we, too, await the fulfillment of God’s promises in our lives. Thus, John 1:19-23 not only serves as a historical account but also as a timeless reminder to prepare our hearts for the transformative presence of Christ in our lives. Amen.

Join me as we pray our daily prayer of forgiveness. The Lord’s Prayer.

At the Savior's command and formed by divine teaching, we dare to say:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, graciously grant peace in our days, that, by the help of your mercy, we may be always free from sin and safe from all distress, as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen.

I am sorry Lord. I believe You died and rose for me. Please forgive me as I forgive others. I share You as my Lord and Savior seeking to live your Will in all things. Prayers for wife Toni and my mother Betty pray for our children especially our two oldest Alexandra & Allen Son in Law Mark Stern; Julian, Gabriel and Jeffrey and our grandchildren Oliver, Julian and Elliott. We pray for those we’ve said we’d pray for and those who’ve asked us to pray for them. We pray for the dying as we do each day Lord give them peace in their last breath. We pray for Holy Mother Church. Our prayers for our niece Brittany. In Jesus Precious Blood by His Name we pray. Amen.

I am a poet obedient to Christ,

Catholic Evangelist Thomas Cruz†Wiggins

†Spirit led God inspired Christ fed†®

Ephesians 6:17-20

01-02-2025 John 1 v1923

**Make straight the way of the Lord**

In the desert's whisper, a voice so clear,

John stands among shadows, drawing us near.

Sent from the heights with a message to share,

A prophet in waiting, with heart laid bare.

“Who are you?” they ask, in the light of the day,

“Are you the Messiah? Show us the way.”

With humility woven through every reply,

He speaks of the One who can never lie.

“I am not the Christ, nor Elijah returned,

But a voice in the wilderness, fervently yearned.

Prepare ye the way, for the Lord is at hand,

In the barren places, His kingdom will stand.”

Isaiah foretold of this mission divine,

A herald of hope, in the sands’ shifting line.

With each word he utters, a pathway is laid,

For the Savior to come, our debts to be paid.

In the simplicity of his humble claim,

John mirrors our longing, igniting the flame.

For we, too, are voices in deserts of doubt,

Crying for mercy, for love to break out.

So let us remember this call from the past,

To prepare for His coming, our hearts hold steadfast.

In the echoes of John, may our spirits rejoice,

For the Savior is coming; let us lift our voice. Amen.

© Thomas Joe Cruz†Wiggins

January 2, 2025 @ 05:01 AM EST

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