Point people to Jesus.
That is what John the Baptist wanted to do.
John announced: “Someone is coming soon who is greater than I am—so much greater that I’m not even worthy to stoop down like a slave and untie the straps of his sandals." (Mark 1:7)
Before Jesus came on to the scene (relatively speaking), John had gotten a lot of attention. He spoke; people listened. He went; people followed.
But he knew a greater one was coming. And this greater one was his cousin, whom he recognized, somehow, even when in the womb (Luke 1:41).
In comparison to Jesus, John considered himself far below a lowly slave. He wouldn’t even assume the honor of being able to touch the dirty feet of His cousin and Lord. It’s not that John was that detestable, but that Jesus was that great.
Do I regard Jesus as this great?
He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less. (John 3:30)
Jesus’ ministry grew and grew, and John needed to get out of the way.
Do I try to hold to respect and status among others?
The amazing thing is how Jesus turns this around. We rightly are His servants, but that’s not what He calls us.
He calls us His FRIENDS. He puts us on equal status to Him.
I no longer call you slaves, because a master doesn’t confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me. (John 15:5)
Point people to Jesus.
That is what I want to do. Compared to the honor and glory that Jesus offers, why do I crave glory from people?