²⁵ Now a discussion arose between some of John’s disciples and a Jew over purification. ²⁶ And they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, he who was with you across the Jordan, to whom you bore witness—look, he is baptizing, and all are going to him.” ²⁷ John answered, “A person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given him from heaven. ²⁸ You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before him.’ ²⁹ The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is now complete. ³⁰ He must increase, but I must decrease.”  John 3:25-30

John the Baptist says, “He (Jesus) must increase, but I must decrease.” John has the right perspective in his relationship with Jesus Christ – Jesus must be bigger than himself. There are many today who, I believe, try to assert themselves as being bigger that Jesus Christ. John Lennon once stated that the Beatles were bigger than Jesus Christ. Perhaps this was true in his mind, but I believe Jesus is less popular in this society than many celebrities and athletes. The gospel of John states that John the Baptist came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe in the light, Jesus Christ.  This light, is the true light, that enlightens everyone, and allows us to have a clearer understanding of our relationship with Jesus Christ – which is the same as John’s – Jesus must increase in our lives as we decrease the distractions that keep us from a relationship with Jesus.  For many individuals, this is a message that falls flat at their feet because they are unwilling to be in the right relationship with Jesus – believing that they are bigger than life itself. This Lenten season, let us remember our true place in relationship with Jesus Christ.

Pastor Dave