Be the “Best Man”

I woke up this morning really reflecting on John 3:30, “He must become greater; I must become less.”

Let’s take a look at the context of this verse.  John the Baptist, the predecessor of Christ, was describing his role in life, his purpose, by relating it to a wedding.  Jesus was the groom, and John was the “best man.”  He followed this with his famously humble (ironic, no?) statement, “He must become greater; I must become less.”

But that makes sense.  If you are the best man to the groom, it’s not about you.  It’s all about making sure you pick up HIS tux on time, calm HIS nerves, straighten HIS bowtie, encourage HIM, and so on.  It is important that you don’t upstage the groom, because after all, it is HIS big day.  In fact, few people acknowledge, thank, and praise you because they are too focused on the groom and bride.  You play the support role, and cheerfully so, because you are happy for your friend.

Let’s resolve to have this attitude in our lives.  It’s always been all about Jesus, and it is important for us to play the support role.  Our preferences must give way to what would bring Jesus the greatest joy.  Our styles must give way to what would bring Jesus the greatest pleasure.  Our desire to be acknowledged and thanked must give way to what would bring Jesus the greatest honor.  Even our sense of humor must be altered, our personalities tamed, our tone of voice shifted, that Jesus receives the greatest glory.

More of Jesus.  Less of us.

More of Jesus.  Less of me.

My heart,

Josh