Becoming Less…
We live in a world where" becoming more than we are" is a measure of success. We strive for personal improvement, for labor that reflects achievement. Every aspect of life is filled with a drive to "increase." Now let us add to that the issue of sustainability. How long do I remain relevant and useful? How do I compete with a generation right behind me, nipping at my heels for my position? We define success on prestige, accomplishment and gain.
But is there ever a time we intentionally become less in order that another may become more. This is the very situation John, the Baptist is realizing as Jesus ministers in the same region, preaching, teaching and baptizing people. John's disciples are becoming desperate; their leader has competition in in the person of Jesus. As the one called to "prepare the way of the Lord", John experience great popularity, John was very successful in his ministry. John was faithful, preaching repentance and baptism. In John 3:22-36 we can eavesdrop into a very interesting conversation between the John the Baptist and his disciple. John the Baptist summarizes the situation telling his disciples "He (referring to Jesus) must increase but I must decrease." These words are significant and the implications are burdensome. How does one intentionally decrease in order that Jesus might increase? Even for every Christian today, this dilemma remains. It is in stark contrast to our western Christianity. Yet, it is the thrust of the Kingdom of God, Jesus increasing and we are decreasing. What does this look like in the practical; how do I live if I am intentionally decreasing? The contrast in John's words are direct, intentional and a difficult reality. John the Baptist states "...but I must decrease." This is commanding language, it speaks to his future; unknown to him, John the Baptist while still preaching repentance and baptism, found himself imprisoned. Even John had doubts about his own ministry seeking reassurance from Jesus. John's end was not a glorious departure, he received no accolades, he did not slip into retirement. No, John experienced becoming less even unto death as a martyred...beheaded!
Here is the challenge for each one of us; "how do I intentionally decrease so Christ is increasing in my life?" This is not a philosophical question. This question requires thought, a plan and action. In the quietness of this moment, ask yourself "am I in competition with Christ for my life?" What do we need to do, what is so precious to us that we elevate our dreams, intentions, accomplishments, our gain above Christ? As we process this question(s), it is essential for us to understand that John the Baptist is speaking of wisdom from the ancient of the ages. God wisdom is so contrary to our earthly knowledge of good and evil. Earthly fame and fortune is fleeting, but the labor for Christ is eternal and is like the stars streaking across the heavens. True stardom is in the wisdom and labor of God...Dan 12:3 3 But the wise will shine like the brightness of the heavenly expanse. And those bringing many to righteousness will be like the stars forever and ever.
by Grace Alone!
www.hcfcc.org
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