In today’s gospel passage, as they were descending the mountain after the transfiguration, Jesus continues his discourse on the personality of John the Baptist- his precursor. John saw himself as the forerunner of the Messiah.

Christ identifies John as the Elijah who is to come. This is based on his mission and assignment . This is to fulfill the scriptures, ‘Look, I shall send you the prophet Elijah before the great and awesome Day of the Lord’. (Malachi 4:23; Mark 1:2).

Thus, John the Baptist is the expected messenger of the Messiah and the Elijah they we’re waiting for. The world today is in need of men who can stand for the truth and prepare for God’s kingdom. Men of great faith and humility. As we prepare for the coming of the Lord let us keep watch and pray.

Osho