Saturday 6th December 2025
Frances Cunningham
“I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness”
John 1:23a
Other than ourselves
One of the highlights of Saturday night viewing is a programme called The Voice. Four coaches, well-known singing stars in their own right, choose potential talent based purely on their voice. The panel sit in chairs with their backs to the participants and if a coach likes what they hear, they press a button. Their chair then turns to reveal the contestant, and the coach indicates their interest in having them on their team. Each one of the hopefuls vying to become the next Taylor Swift or Harry Styles grasps for recognition, fame and a place in the limelight.
This brings to mind Jesus’ cousin John with his dubious choice in clothes and his rather odd taste in food. He is asked by the religious folk about his identity. He tells them that he is not Messiah. Rather, his line is this: “I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness.”
He is just the voice but his voice is uncompromising and unwavering, even in the face of the powers of the world.
In a world that showers accolades and awards, that thrives on success, we have John who points away from himself and recognises the One who comes after him. If we can learn anything from John, it is that we have to witness to other than ourselves. It has never been about you and me, but about Jesus; never about what we want, but what Jesus wants. Like the television programme, John encourages us to turn to the true voice. The voice that tells us that we all have the same purpose: to speak, teach, live and love in a way that directs people away from us … to Jesus.
Of course our voices are important, especially if we can speak for those in the world who believe they’re not heard. The many who need to be heard – especially those who face institutions that ignore their cries. The world is full of discordant and competing voices, each one offering happiness and pleasure, and enticing people to follow the ways of selfishness and worldliness.
On a dark night, a child cried, angels gathered over Bethlehem, and shepherds came calling on a child in a manger. We haven’t forgotten that night down across the centuries, though remembering is not enough.
We need to find our voice.
Shall we pray?:
God of love, help us to hear your voice through the noise and distractions of our own lives. Grant us the humility of John, to point not to ourselves but always to the true Lamb of God. Amen.
Frances Cunningham is lay pastor of the parish of Gladsmuir linked with Longniddry.
Talking it through:
Who are you?
How can you use your voice?
How do you think John felt about his life mission?