John 3:20 “He must become greater, I must become less.”
Few words strike deeper to the core of the meaning of discipleship as these words, spoken not by Jesus, but by John the Baptist. John was the one to whom God gave the incredible task of preparing the way for Jesus, his message was the one that laid the foundation for the good news that Jesus brought. But John understood that he was not the focus. He was not the long-promised Messiah. That honor belonged to Jesus alone. So John points people away from himself and to the Christ.
Our call is the same – He must become greater, we must become less.
Jesus echos John in Matthew 16:24 "If anyone wants to follow in my footsteps he must give up all right to himself, take up his cross and follow me. 25 For the man who wants to save his life will lose it; but the man who loses his life for my sake will find it.”
And Paul reminds us how it is worked out;
Romans 12:3 As your spiritual teacher I, by the grace God gave me, give this advice to each one of you. Don’t cherish exaggerated ideas of yourself or your importance, but try to have a sane estimate of your capabilities by the light of the faith that God has given to you all.
Nothing in our culture celebrates the one who decreases. Paparazzi do not wait at the servant’s entrance. But the way of Christ is demonstrated by humility and holds a dear promise to all who practice it.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matt 11:29