"He must increase;
I must decrease.”
(John 3:30)
Gospel:
John 3:22-30
is a passage that highlights
the humility and mission
of John the Baptist.
Humility: John the Baptist shows great humility by acknowledging that his role is to prepare the way for Jesus. He understands that his mission is to point others to Christ, not to seek glory for himself.
Joy in Serving: John finds joy in fulfilling his purpose. He compares himself to the friend of the bridegroom, who rejoices greatly at the bridegroom's voice. This teaches us to find joy in serving others and fulfilling our God-given roles.
Recognition of Jesus' Supremacy: John emphasizes that Jesus must increase, while he must decrease. This reminds us to prioritize Jesus in our lives and recognize His supremacy.
Faithfulness to God's Calling: John remains faithful to his calling, even when his followers express concern about Jesus' growing popularity. This teaches us to stay committed to our mission, regardless of external circumstances.
Witnessing for Christ: John the Baptist serves as a witness to Christ, pointing others to Him. We are called to do the same in our lives, sharing the good news of Jesus with others.
These lessons encourage us to live with humility, joy, faithfulness, and a focus on Jesus.
In the quiet dawn, a whisper grows,
A humble heart, in reverence bows.
He must increase, I must decrease,
In His light, my soul finds peace.
The world may call with fleeting fame,
But I seek only His holy name.
He must increase, I must decrease,
In His love, my fears release.
Through trials faced and battles fought,
His grace alone, the strength I've sought.
He must increase, I must decrease,
In His truth, my doubts cease.
As shadows fade and light prevails,
His mercy's song, my heart regales.
He must increase, I must decrease,
In His presence, my soul's release.
Lord Jesus,
In Your presence, I humbly bow, seeking Your grace, Your love, Your light. May Your will be done in my life, As I surrender all to You, day and night. Let Your Spirit fill my soul, guide my steps, make me whole.
In Your strength, I find my peace. Teach me to walk in Your ways, to serve with love, to give You praise. In every moment, let Your glory shine, For I am Yours, and You are mine.
Jesus, my Savior, take my heart, take my hand, Lead me to Your promised land. In Your presence, I find release.
Amen.
Pericope:
II: The Book of Signs
FINAL WITNESS OF THE BAPTIST
John 3:22-30
Gospel Acclamation
The people who sit in darkness have seen a great light, on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death, light has arisen.
Gospel | John 3:22-30
22 Jesus and his disciples went into the region of Judea, where he spent some time with them baptizing. 23 John was also baptizing in Aenon near Salim, because there was an abundance of water there, and people came to be baptized, 24 for John had not yet been imprisoned. 25 Now a dispute arose between the disciples of John and a Jew about ceremonial washings. 26 So they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, the one who was with you across the Jordan, to whom you testified, here he is baptizing and everyone is coming to him.” 27 John answered and said, “No one can receive anything except what has been given him from heaven. 28 You yourselves can testify that I said that I am not the Christ, but that I was sent before him. 29 The one who has the bride is the bridegroom; the best man, who stands and listens for him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. So this joy of mine has been made complete. 30 He must increase; I must decrease.”
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
