I Will Go Lord If You Lead Me!

John the Baptist’s Testimony to Jesus. (from John, Chapter 1)29The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.30 He is the one of whom I said, ‘A man is coming after me who ranks ahead of me because he existed before me.’31I did not know him, but the reason why I came baptizing with water was that he might be made known to Israel.”32John testified further, saying, “I saw the Spirit come down like a dove from the sky and remain upon him.33I did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘On whomever you see the Spirit come down and remain, he is the one who will baptize with the holy Spirit.’34 Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God.” 

The  Gospel reading for this weekend again tells us of the Baptism of Jesus, but from John's point of view this time.  All of John's life was spent "preparing the way" for the One to come.  He lived his life on that belief - what great faith!  Can you imagine the moment when it was revealed to him that the man standing by him was indeed the Son of God?  To FINALLY see the fulfillment of his life's work. 
I wonder if John had any moments of doubt.  He had followers who supported him, but I bet there were also those who thought he was crazy!  
We all have people in our lives who are "John"...those who think differently than the mainstream...maybe they eat differently, dress differently, live differently as well. Some people are on the "fringes" of society..or at least they are viewed as such.
Are they prophets with a message as John was?  Not everyone accepts the status quo or sees things like "normal" people do.  Do they view this as a liability....or a gift?  How do WE see it?  Perhaps YOU are one like John!  
Whether we live on the fringes or in the midst of the what is viewed as our society, what is really important is our relationship with God.  Are we like John, giving our entire life to the mission that God has for us?  Can others see who you are living your life for?  
Dan Schutte wrote Here I Am Lord in 1981 (wow, that's a LONG time ago isn't it!).  It's been a staple of many Christian hymnals.  The song is based on Isaiah 6:8 and 1 Samuel 3.
As you listen to the verses of this song, put your voice to the lyrics.  Listen and meditate on where the Lord will lead you!