Jesus said that among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist. This great man was the forerunner of Jesus sent by God to prepare the way for the Messiah’s coming to the people of Israel. John was a fierce defender of truth and righteousness. He spoke truth to the religious leaders of Israel, and when he confronted Herod because of his sin, the tetrarch imprisoned and later put John to death. (Matt 14:1-12)
When Jesus heard that John had been beheaded, He went alone by boat to a deserted place presumably to mourn John’s death. (Matt 14:13-21) The multitudes followed Him on foot, and when Jesus saw them, He was moved with compassion and healed their sick. Jesus also fed the multitudes which numbered about 5,000 men besides women and children. This He did by multiplying five loaves of bread and two fish with leftovers enough to fill twelve baskets!
Oh, that our commitment to truth and righteousness may resemble that of John’s! Oh, that our compassion for people may be like that of Jesus!