Rejoice

John3:25-30 Now a discussion arose between John’s disciples and a Jew over purifying. And they came to John, and said to him, “Rabbi, he who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you bore witness, here he is, baptizing, and all are going to him.”John answered, “No one can receive anything except what is given him from heaven. You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before him. He who has the bride is the bridegroom; the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice; therefore this joy of mine is now full. He must increase, but I must decrease.” 


One of the reasons that I like John the Baptist so much is that his role has helped me evolve how see my role. Before the time was pregnant for the coming of the Messiah, John was sent to prepare the way. He called the people to see themselves honestly with all their sins and shortcomings. He also pointed to the one who was to follow who he acknowledged was superior to him. Lastly he rejoiced when others came to be followers of Jesus.


Our role is the same, to help people see themselves and then their need for a savior. After they have been opened to the need for a savior, we point them to Jesus and rejoice if they accept a relationship with him. I have had the awesome privilege of seeing the transformation of peoples lives when they encounter Jesus. Rejoice is indeed the right word.