I’m in awe of John the Baptizer.  According to Jesus, John was the greatest man ever born (Matthew 11:11).  What characteristics did John have that made him great in God’s eyes and therefore the model for greatest to which we, too, must aspire?  The Lord’s angel himself lays it out there for us in Luke 1:

– The ones found great in the sight of the Lord will bring joy and gladness to their parents.

– The ones found great in the sight of the Lord will cause others to rejoice at their coming or to rejoice because they are there when needed.

–  The ones found great in the sight of the Lord will not consume alcohol as a beverage, not even a little.

– The ones found great in the sight of the Lord will be filled with the Holy Spirit.

– The ones found great in the sight of the Lord will turn many people to God.

– The ones found great in the sight of the Lord will help mend broken families and will help people discover the Truth.

– The ones found great in the sight of the Lord are faithful to prepare people to meet and walk with Jesus.

This is not a cafeteria plan for being great in the sight of the Lord.  It’s our example for what greatness is.

What’s your score?