He Must Increase
We live in a society where knowledge is available at our fingertips anytime, anywhere. Yet, fewer people seem willing to invest the time and effort to truly learn. Instead, we entertain ourselves by endlessly scrolling through our phones, searching for the newest trend or the next viral sensation.
Selfies, influencers, YouTubers, and countless ways of promoting ourselves have become the norm. Children no longer dream primarily of becoming police officers, doctors, firefighters, or teachers. Many now aspire to be YouTubers, gamers, TikTok creators, or internet celebrities. Often, it doesn't even matter why they become famous. It could be a silly facial expression, a staged fall, singing like a cartoon character, or any number of fleeting trends. A 30-second video can change someone's life, and for many, that kind of popularity has become the ultimate goal.
Even doing good is rarely anonymous anymore. We often see people broadcasting their acts of kindness online, pretending to be surprised by the attention they receive. Fake smiles, beauty filters, cruel pranks, bullying recorded instead of stopped, and a growing lack of genuine care and empathy have become increasingly common. How have we become so superficial and vain? Everyone wants to be seen.
In striking contrast to today's culture, John the Baptist demonstrated a mindset rooted in humility and a clear understanding that he was never meant to be the center of attention. When his disciples expressed concern that Jesus was gaining more followers than he was, perhaps expecting jealousy or disappointment, John simply replied, "He must increase, but I must decrease." (John 3:30)
John understood that he was only the messenger, the one sent to point others to the Savior. His purpose was not to draw attention to himself but to proclaim the One who came from heaven. He intentionally stepped out of the spotlight so that people would see Jesus instead of him. It did not matter that he was losing followers or baptizing fewer people. His joy was found in hearing the Bridegroom's voice and seeing Christ glorified.
What a powerful example for us today.
May we choose humility over recognition and faithfulness over popularity. May we learn to do good without seeking applause and to serve without craving attention. Each day, let us decrease by loving Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and by loving our neighbors as ourselves. As we do, Christ will become more visible in our lives until people see less of us and more of Him.
He must increase in us.
