Center Stage

John 3:29-30
29The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom's voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete. 30He must become greater; I must become less.

Who is taking center stage? The followers of John the Baptist were a little confused because John had been baptizing people in the Jordan River until after he baptized Jesus. Once Jesus was baptized and declared to those present as the Son of God, men and women went to Jesus to be baptized. Those following John didn't understand that John's purpose was nearly complete. His whole mission was about preparing the way for Jesus. The analogy of the wedding is a perfect example. The best man and maid of honor roles are to be present for the groom and bride and assist with any needs. It is not the best man or maid of honor's time to shine but to make the bride and groom shine. It's their day. Anyone who attempts to outshine them is not in order. So John was not to be upset by men and women turning to Jesus. That was the purpose of him declaring to them who Jesus was. The mantle had been given to the rightful owner.

Everyone can't be center stage. Someone has to step back and someone must step forward. Has Jesus taken center stage in your life? Have you handed the mantle over to Jesus or are you still holding on to it? There are others that have had center stage in your life that Jesus says it's time for act III and in it, the central character changes. Who will it be?