The answer is: To bear witness of the light

John 1:6-7

In the Gospel of John, John the Baptist plays a critical role as the first herald of something magnificent. His mission, as mentioned, was to bear witness of the light—who is none other than Jesus. Imagine being the opening act at a concert, preparing the crowd for the main act! John came onto the scene to set the stage, announcing that the darkness of the world was about to be lit up.

Interestingly, John's ministry set the foundation for the responsibility of bearing witness which continues to this day. He embodies the idea that our firsthand experiences and authentic testimonies can significantly influence others. That means every one of us can be a little light in the world. John's dedication reminded people of figures like Elijah, and interestingly, his lifestyle—including his clothing made of camel's hair and diet of locusts and wild honey—echoes Old Testament prophets, making him an intriguing character buried in rich biblical tradition.

John’s selfless humility is evident when he identifies merely as a voice, emphasizing that he must decrease while Jesus increases. This concept threads through various parts of the New Testament, capturing the essence of selflessness and the significant impact of guiding others toward something greater than oneself. So, remember—like John, we, too, can shine light in our own unique ways, echoing an age-old call to support truth and faith.