The relationship between Jesus and John the Baptizer is one of the most touching atories in the New Testament. Relatives and devoted friends, their mothers had spent about six months visiting together immediately before the birth of their two sons. It was John who first identified Jesus as the Savior, introducing him to the people at the Jordan. As Jesus commenced his ministry, John continued with his, the two often communicating, always keeping in touch, sending messengers back and forth.

When Herod, the king…