Long ago, in a quiet place called the desert, there lived a man named John. John was very special because God had given him an important job. His job was to tell people to get ready for someone very, very special—Jesus!
John wore clothes made from camel’s hair. He ate honey from the wild bees and locusts, which are crunchy little bugs! People thought he looked different, but they listened carefully because John’s words were full of truth and love.
One day, John stood by the Jordan River. The water sparkled like tiny diamonds under the sun. He shouted to the people, “Come close! It’s time to say sorry for the wrong things we have done.” Saying sorry is called repentance. It’s like cleaning your heart so it can be shiny and bright again.
Many people came to the river. They felt sad for their mistakes but happy to hear John’s message. Some asked, “What should we do to show we are really sorry?” John smiled kindly and said, “Be kind to others, share what you have, and don’t be mean or greedy.”
Then, John did something very special. He dipped people gently into the water. This was called baptism. It showed that their hearts were clean and ready for Jesus. When people came out of the water, they felt like new, like flowers blooming in spring.
John told everyone, “I am not the special one. Someone greater is coming after me. He will love you forever and help you live in God’s way.” John’s words made the people excited and hopeful, like waiting for a bright rainbow after a rainy day.
Some leaders didn’t like what John said. They asked him, “Who are you? Why do you say these things?” John answered bravely, “I am just a voice calling in the desert, telling you to get ready for Jesus.” John knew his job was to help people see Jesus clearly.
John’s heart was full of joy because he knew God’s plan was very good. He wanted everyone to be ready to meet Jesus, who would bring peace and happiness to the world. John’s mission was like a bright light shining in the dark, guiding people to God’s love.
And so, the people kept coming to John. They listened, learned, and prepared their hearts. They knew that Jesus, the Son of God, was coming soon to bring a wonderful new beginning for everyone.
Questions to think about
- Who was John the Baptist?
- What did John tell people to do?
- Why did people go into the river with John?
- What did John say about Jesus?
- How do you think people felt when they heard John’s message?
Message of the story
God sends special helpers like John to guide us to Jesus, so we can have clean hearts and live in His love.
Bible passage
Matthew 3
