The Humility of John the Baptist - John 3:22-30
In today's Gospel, we encounter a powerful moment of humility and clarity from John the Baptist. While both Jesus and John were baptizing in the region of Judea, John's disciples grew concerned. People were flocking to Jesus instead of their teacher. Their anxiety reveals a very human tendency—the desire to protect our status, our following, our importance.
But John's response is breathtaking in its simplicity and wisdom.
"He Must Increase, I Must Decrease"
John reminds his disciples of something fundamental: "No one can receive anything except what has been given from heaven." He understands his role perfectly. He is not the bridegroom; he is the best man. And the best man's greatest joy comes not from being the center of attention, but from hearing the bridegroom's voice and witnessing the union.
This is the heart of authentic Christian witness. John knew exactly who he was and, more importantly, who he was not. He had no confusion about his mission. He came to prepare the way, to point beyond himself, to decrease so that Christ could increase.
A Mirror for Our Lives
How often do we struggle with this same temptation? In our careers, our ministries, even our families, we can become attached to recognition, to being needed, to maintaining our position. We build little kingdoms instead of pointing to the Kingdom.
John the Baptist challenges us to examine our motivations. Are we serving to elevate ourselves or to elevate Christ? Are we willing to step aside when our time has passed? Can we celebrate when others succeed, even if it means we fade into the background?
The Joy of Surrendering
Notice that John doesn't speak of his decreasing with sadness or resignation. He speaks with joy—"the best man rejoices greatly at the bridegroom's voice." There is profound freedom in knowing your purpose and fulfilling it without grasping for more.
When we release our need for recognition and control, we discover something unexpected: peace. We find joy not in being the center of attention but in participating in something greater than ourselves.
Living the Gospel Today
As we reflect on this Gospel, we might ask ourselves:
Where in my life am I trying to increase when I should decrease? What am I holding onto that God is asking me to release? Am I willing to be the voice pointing to Christ rather than drawing attention to myself?
John the Baptist's witness reminds us that our lives are not ultimately about us. We are here to prepare the way, to point beyond ourselves, to let Christ increase in our hearts and in our world.
May we have the courage and humility to embrace our true calling, whatever that may be, and to find our joy in seeing Christ glorified rather than ourselves.