We live in a culture of “more”. We all seem to be bottomless pits. We’re never satisfied. We have an unquenchable desire for more. I guess in some ways this appetite has been beneficial. It has driven us to be better. It has pushed us out of complacency. However, there are some negative side effects.
One of those is the rise of self. We have become wrapped up in us. We are a culture of self-absorbed, self-promoting “me lovers”. If it doesn’t benefit us, then we bolt. If it does benefit us, then we don’t care how it may effect others. The “me monster” in us has to be contained. As I read scripture I’m constantly reminded of the value in “denying ourselves” and “putting away selfish ambition“.
Then today I read John 3:30. John the Baptist says ” He (Jesus) must become greater, and I (John) must become less.” These maybe the most profound words ever uttered by a human in all of scripture. John the Baptist’s desire was that Jesus would overshadow him. I share his desire. I want to shrink in the shadow of His greatness.
