THE ARRIVAL OF THE BRIDEGROOM
You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, "I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before him.' The one 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 complete. He must increase, but I must decrease. John 3:28-30
John made many disciples and they were fiercely loyal; so much so, that when Jesus arrived on the scene and began drawing larger crowds, John's disciples were afraid of Jesus' growing popularity. It threatened John's standing, or so they perceived.
John set the record straight and his words are corrective for any of us who suffer from comparing ourselves to others. John likened himself to a best man at a wedding. He is there to help prepare for the wedding day. He makes himself available to the bridegroom and sets all things in order for the day the bridegroom comes to take his bride. Once that moment arrives, the best man's job is complete. He stands to the side for the main event. He does not try to take the spotlight. He is, after all, only the best man.
John's illustration to his Jewish followers was not lost on them, I'm sure. They knew their history. The nation of Israel had been betrothed to God, then put aside because of their disobedience. Jesus was coming to claim His bride and reveal Himself to them. John knew that his personal role was to prepare the bridegroom for Jesus' coming. He spoke on the Messiah's behalf, wooing the heart of the bride toward her Lover so that the relationship could flourish. If you and I are in ministry, and each one of us is, what is our role? To prepare other's internal soil to receive the personal ministry of Christ in their lives.
I hate being introduced when I'm on the road. I just squirm in my seat and wonder how long till it's over. I'm not sure I ever understood why completely until this morning. It's because any minister of the Gospel ought to be preparing the way for Jesus' arrival. I am only the announcer, speaking of His glory and His love, preparing their hearts to receive Him completely without reservation. My name is unimportant. My credentials are unimportant. I am a much loved daughter of Abba with a passionate voice to point to the One who should receive all the glory and honor.
Even in this devotional, I want to proclaim.... "The bridegroom's arrival is imminent. Are your arms open wide?"
I absolutely love talking about You, telling others what You're like, Jesus. It's all about You and I hold You high on display. Amen
Christine Wyrtzen
Daughters of Promise
