October 4, 2015: Not Me – Michael Hidalgo

We are introduced to John the Baptist by his saying “I am not …” He denies three things. First, that he is Messiah. Second, that he is not Elijah. Third that he is not the prophet (like Moses). These are important statements for it reflects not only his understanding of himself but also his understanding of who Jesus is. 

Then he jumps into who he is. First, that he is a voice. Second, that he is one who baptizes with water. Third, that he is one who is unworthy. Again, he understands not only who he is not but who he is. And in reflecting his understanding of self he is able to properly understand who Jesus is. 

All of this surrounding the words “I Am” which are the ultimate statement of being. Which causes us to ask – what is the ground of our being? What is our identity? And are we at all aware of it enough to know when to say “I am not” and “I am.”