(My thoughts on today’s Gospel: John 3:22-30; June 24, 2024)

It's easy to say "Jesus is Lord," but He's so much more than that. In 1 John, we're given a profound image of Jesus as the bridegroom, emphasizing an intimate bond through an unbreakable covenant.

His passion is evident in His love for Israel and for every human soul, for the entire human family. This language isn't about rules or commandments; it speaks of the deep intimacy and passion of the Creator for His creation. John tells us that Jesus comes from above, from beyond us, from the heavens. He speaks from another dimension, revealing the fullness of God through Christ. John later writes that Jesus is the light, the same light revealed at the beginning of creation, now manifested in the flesh.

In Jesus, we see the Christ, the representation of the Father, making the fullness of God known to each of us. These are profound statements about the Christ, profound expressions of who He is. John, in his writings, serves as a prophetic prototype for us. He shows us that our mission is to reveal Jesus, to point out His passion for us, and to invite others into this relationship, helping them realize they are created in His image and likeness.

If we follow John's example, we understand our mission is to bring others into the knowledge of who Jesus is. Jesus came to give Himself to all humanity, revealing the fullness of God's light. Recognizing Christ among us, we must humbly decrease so He can increase. In a world filled with icons of sports, movies, and politics, the church sometimes elevates individuals to a status of perfection. But we see these individuals fall because none of us are perfect. We are not the Savior; we are simply prophets of the Savior, heralding who Jesus is and inviting everyone into a relationship with Him.

As I mature in my faith, I realize the importance of decreasing so Christ can increase. It's a privilege and honor to know that people are coming into their own relationship with Christ and can trust in that reality. I hope this speaks to you on several levels this morning.

Jesus is the bridegroom. He has chosen us to be His bride. He comes from above as the light to lift us out of the darkness of our independence. What a glorious announcement! In response, we must step aside and trust that Christ can shape and mold each individual in their personal relationship with Him. Amen.