John the Baptist stood by the river, telling people to leave behind their wrong words, thoughts, and actions. These wrong words, thoughts, and actions–sin–kept people from being God’s friend. But John told them that God was sending Someone soon to save them from their sins, so they could know God as a friend and live with Him forever. This "Someone" was Jesus.

When people listened to John and wanted to change, John dipped them in the river. By being washed–or baptized–in the river, people showed that they believed John and wanted Jesus to help them change.

Jesus also came to the river and asked John to baptize Him. He did not need to be baptized because He was the perfect Son of God. But John baptized Jesus anyway because he wanted to obey God and do the right thing.

Thank You, God, for sending Your Son Jesus to show me how much you love me. Help me to thank You by doing what You want me to do.

Remember Rhyme

John the Baptist knew
A Savior would come one day.

At the river, John
Said what God told him to say:

"God’s Son loves you,
And wants to change your heart.

"Give Him your life,
And He will do the changing part."

Many people came to hear
The news John had to share.

They were glad to learn
Just how much Jesus cared.


HOW TO BE GOD'S FRIEND