Reflection
Saturday after Epiphany
1 John 5:14-21
Psalm 149:1-2, 3-4, 5-6a and 9b
John 3:22-30
“He must increase; I must decrease.”
In bringing people to repentance and through Baptism, John is preparing the way for the one who is to come. Now Jesus is working alongside the disciples, baptizing, in another area close by, and John is questioned about this. John uses the metaphor of Jesus as the Groom and himself as the Best Man to describe his joy in his supporting role.
Encounters with John the Baptist in sacred scripture show that he is always quick to draw attention away from himself and to point to Jesus: Behold, the Lamb of God; I am not worthy to tie the strap on his sandals; A man is coming after me who ranks ahead of me…
How often do we look for validation, affirmation, and praise? And isn’t it so much more satisfying to take all the credit that comes our way, instead of pointing to the contributions of others? When we do accomplish something that is outstanding, do we stop and give thanks to God? Are we grateful that he has gifted us with the talents, means and ability to succeed? When we use our God given talents and gifts, we give glory to him, he takes delight in that. Even more pleasing to him are our humble prayers of thanksgiving.
The satisfaction of worldly honor is fleeting; it does not remain with us. What does remain with us is joy. Joy that comes from the virtue of humility; Joy that comes from playing a supporting role in bringing about the kingdom; Joy from stepping aside and pointing to Jesus in all things, great and small.
In quiet prayer today, repeat these words of John The Baptist: “He must increase, I must decrease.” And contemplate ways in which you can point to Jesus, deflect praise, and give glory to God.