Increasing and Decreasing.

In John’s Gospel, there is an account of a discussion between John and his disciples. Once Jesus came on the scene, people were confused about who was who? John explains his role was to prepare people for Jesus and finishes the discussion with one of my favorite lines in scripture: “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

No better words describe the pupose of our spiritual journeys.

No better standard exists to measure our spiritual lives.

In my life, there have been times when I have felt connected to Christ and used that to somehow propel me into new career endeavors and increased public recognition. Looking back, I was the one increasing.

There have also been times when my spiritual connection to Christ has led me to focus on others. Whether in words or actions, I found myself looking and caring beyond myself.  In those moments, I decreased and God increased.

Knowing that one’s spiritual journey is one of progress, not perfection, I take comfort not in where I am, but in which direction I am headed. Thinking of John’s wisdom, I celebrate those times when I decrease and God increases, just as I mourn when it is the other way around.

The beginning of a new year, one with resolutions of all kinds, can really boil down to one. May this be a year in which God increases, and we decrease.