The Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran is dedicated to Christ in honor of two saints: John the Evangelist and John the Baptist.
John the Evangelist had a front-row seat during Jesus’ time on earth. He was the last apostle standing, and he lived to see the Gospel spread like wildfire.
But John the Baptist was there right at the start – before Jesus was famous, before the miracles, and before anyone really knew who he was. John was out in the wilderness, getting people ready for the Savior.
Being a prophet probably felt super lonely at times. John was called by God to share a bold and challenging message, and not everyone wanted to hear it. But he kept his faith, even when the reality of what he believed was still hidden from everyone else. Check out this clip from The Chosen that highlights the beginning and the end of John the Baptist’s life.
Listen! It’s the voice of someone shouting, “Clear the way through the wilderness for the LORD! Fill in the valleys, and level the mountains and hills. Straighten the curves, and smooth out the rough places. Then the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all people will see it together. The LORD has spoken!” –Isaiah 40:3-5