He Must Increase

In the journey of faith, there is a constant tension between self-reliance and surrender to God’s will. Today’s readings invite us to embrace joyful submission, recognizing that true freedom and fulfillment are found not in asserting our own plans but in aligning ourselves with God’s authority. Whether it is through prayer, praise, or humility, the Word of God calls us to trust that His will is perfect, His justice is true, and His love is unchanging.

In the First Reading from 1 John 5:14-21, we are reminded of the confidence we can have in approaching God through prayer when we ask “according to His will.” St. John also touches on the seriousness of sin and the discernment needed to walk faithfully in God’s truth, setting the stage for vigilance and dependence on His grace.

The Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 149) takes this trust further by showing us the joy of God’s faithful. It speaks of celebrating God’s victories with song and dance, underscoring the delight that comes from living in harmony with His will. This psalm points us to a faith that is not only obedient but also exuberantly joyful.

In the Gospel (John 3:22-30), John the Baptist provides a profound example of humility and submission. When his disciples express concern about Jesus’ growing popularity, John responds with the iconic words, “He must increase; I must decrease.” His deep joy in stepping aside for Christ reminds us that our purpose is found in exalting God, not ourselves.

Culturally, these readings emerge from a time of strong religious identity in Israel, where fidelity to God was expressed through prayer, worship, and a readiness to let go of worldly ambition. For early Christians like John the Baptist’s followers or the psalmists, this was a radical call to recognize the Messiah as the fulfillment of God’s promise, requiring both humility and celebration.

As we reflect on these passages today, ask yourself: What areas of my life need greater surrender to God’s will? How can I, like John the Baptist, find joy in decreasing so that Christ may increase? With these questions in mind, let us delve into the readings, allowing God to guide our hearts toward a deeper trust and a more profound joy in Him.

First Reading – 1 John 5:14-21

Confidence in Prayer and Discernment in Faith

St. John’s first epistle serves as a theological and pastoral guide for early Christians, emphasizing their relationship with God, the seriousness of sin, and the power of prayer. Written in the context of a nascent Church facing theological challenges, this letter responds to controversies over Jesus’ identity and encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith. In today’s passage, John focuses on the confidence believers can have when approaching God in prayer, provided their petitions align with His divine will. This assurance is not just about receiving what is asked but about trusting that God’s will is perfect and always oriented toward our ultimate good. Furthermore, St. John addresses the realities of sin, distinguishing between mortal sin, which destroys our relationship with God, and venial sin, which damages but does not sever it. This reading not only provides insight into the early Church’s understanding of sin and intercession but also calls us to live as children of God, protected from the evil one and ever discerning His truth. By anchoring today’s theme of joyful surrender, the passage invites us to trust in God’s authority and remain vigilant against sin and distractions.

1 John 5:14-21
New American Bible (Revised Edition)

¹⁴ And we have this confidence in him, that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. ¹⁵ And if we know that he hears us in regard to whatever we ask, we know that what we have asked him for is ours. ¹⁶ If anyone sees his brother sinning, if the sin is not deadly, he should pray to God and he will give him life. This is only for those whose sin is not deadly. There is such a thing as deadly sin, about which I do not say that you should pray. ¹⁷ All wrongdoing is sin, but there is sin that is not deadly.
¹⁸ We know that no one begotten by God sins; but the one begotten by God he protects, and the evil one cannot touch him. ¹⁹ We know that we belong to God, and the whole world is under the power of the evil one. ²⁰ We also know that the Son of God has come and has given us discernment to know the one who is true. And we are in the one who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. ²¹ Children, be on your guard against idols.

Detailed Exegesis

Verse 14:
“And we have this confidence in him, that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.”
This verse expresses the profound assurance believers can have in prayer. Confidence in prayer is not based on personal merit but on God’s faithfulness and His desire for our good. However, this confidence is contingent on asking in accordance with His will. God’s will, as revealed in Scripture and through the Church, provides the framework for Christian prayer. This aligns with the teaching of the Catechism, which states: “By prayer, we can discern ‘what is the will of God’ and obtain the endurance to do it” (CCC 2826). Prayer is not about imposing our desires on God but about aligning our hearts with His divine plan.

Verse 15:
“And if we know that he hears us in regard to whatever we ask, we know that what we have asked him for is ours.”
This verse underscores the efficacy of prayer. The assurance that God hears us reflects His intimate relationship with His children. While God always hears and answers prayers, the form of His response may vary—sometimes granting our desires, other times redirecting them toward a greater good. The certainty St. John describes is rooted in trust that God’s answers are always what we truly need, even if they differ from what we initially seek.

Verse 16:
“If anyone sees his brother sinning, if the sin is not deadly, he should pray to God and he will give him life. This is only for those whose sin is not deadly. There is such a thing as deadly sin, about which I do not say that you should pray.”
Here, John introduces a critical distinction between mortal (deadly) and venial (non-deadly) sin. Mortal sin destroys our relationship with God and requires sacramental confession to restore grace. Venial sin, though less severe, still wounds our relationship with God and others. John calls believers to intercede for those in venial sin, trusting that God will bring them back to spiritual life. The mention of mortal sin highlights the gravity of turning completely away from God, a choice that requires a more direct reconciliation. This verse reinforces the communal dimension of faith, as Christians are called to pray for one another and support each other on the path to holiness.

Verse 17:
“All wrongdoing is sin, but there is sin that is not deadly.”
This verse acknowledges the universal reality of sin while maintaining the distinction between degrees of sin. It reminds us that all sin offends God and requires repentance, but not all sin leads to spiritual death. The Church’s teaching on the distinction between mortal and venial sin (CCC 1854-1855) draws heavily from passages like this, helping believers understand the varying impacts of their choices on their relationship with God.

Verse 18:
“We know that no one begotten by God sins; but the one begotten by God he protects, and the evil one cannot touch him.”
This verse uses “begotten by God” to refer to those who are spiritually reborn through baptism. While Christians are called to avoid sin, the verse does not imply sinless perfection but rather a life oriented toward God, safeguarded by His grace. The mention of “the evil one” reminds believers that Satan seeks to lead us away from God, but those who remain faithful are protected by God’s grace. This promise provides comfort and assurance to the faithful.

Verse 19:
“We know that we belong to God, and the whole world is under the power of the evil one.”
John contrasts the Christian’s belonging to God with the worldly domination of the evil one. While the world is fallen and influenced by sin, believers are called to live as children of light, resisting the darkness and proclaiming God’s truth. This verse challenges us to examine our own lives: Do we live as those who belong to God, or do we allow the world’s influences to dominate our hearts?

Verse 20:
“We also know that the Son of God has come and has given us discernment to know the one who is true. And we are in the one who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.”
This verse emphasizes Jesus’ divinity and mission. By becoming man, Christ not only revealed God’s truth but also invited humanity into intimate union with Him. The “discernment to know the one who is true” highlights the role of grace in enabling believers to recognize and follow God’s will. Jesus is not just a teacher or prophet; He is the source of eternal life.

Verse 21:
“Children, be on your guard against idols.”
In this final exhortation, John warns against idolatry, a timeless danger. Idols are anything that takes precedence over God in our hearts, whether material possessions, relationships, or ambitions. This verse challenges us to evaluate our priorities and remove anything that hinders our relationship with God.

Teachings

The Catechism of the Catholic Church provides profound insights into this reading. Prayer, as described in the passage, is a gift from God that enables us to align ourselves with His will (CCC 2610). St. John’s distinction between mortal and venial sin is foundational to Catholic moral theology, helping believers understand the varying consequences of sin (CCC 1854-1855). The passage also affirms Jesus’ divinity, a cornerstone of Catholic faith, as expressed in the Nicene Creed and explored in Church doctrine (CCC 454). Saints like St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas have written extensively on prayer, sin, and grace, offering timeless reflections that deepen our understanding of this passage.

Reflection

This reading invites us to deepen our trust in God through prayer and to remain vigilant against sin and idolatry. It reminds us that prayer is not about demanding our way but about surrendering to God’s perfect will. In our daily lives, we are called to pray with confidence, intercede for others, and examine our hearts for idols that may distract us from God. Consider taking time each day to ask yourself: Am I living as someone who belongs to God? How can I trust His will more fully in my prayers? Let today’s passage inspire you to embrace joyful surrender, trusting that God’s plan is always for your ultimate good.

Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 149:1-6, 9

Joyful Praise and Trust in the Divine King

Psalm 149 is a song of victory and joy, celebrating God’s kingship and His love for His people. Historically, this psalm reflects Israel’s gratitude for God’s deliverance, possibly written after a significant victory or as a call to renewed hope during exile. In the cultural and religious life of Israel, psalms played a central role in worship, serving as prayers, hymns, and expressions of communal identity. This particular psalm exhorts the faithful to praise God with song and dance, rejoicing in His protection and justice. The victorious tone invites believers to recognize God as their ultimate King, who delights in His people and defends them against their enemies. The psalm fits beautifully into today’s theme by emphasizing the joy and confidence that come from surrendering to God’s will, trusting His authority, and living in harmony with His plan.

Psalm 149:1-6, 9
New American Bible (Revised Edition)

Praise God with Song and Sword
¹ Hallelujah!
Sing to the Lord a new song,
    his praise in the assembly of the faithful.
² Let Israel be glad in its maker,
    the people of Zion rejoice in their king.
³ Let them praise his name in dance,
    make music with tambourine and lyre.
⁴ For the Lord takes delight in his people,
    honors the poor with victory.
⁵ Let the faithful rejoice in their glory,
    cry out for joy on their couches,
⁶ With the praise of God in their mouths,
    and a two-edged sword in their hands,

⁹ To execute the judgments decreed for them—
    such is the glory of all God’s faithful.
Hallelujah!

Detailed Exegesis

Verse 1:
“Hallelujah! Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise in the assembly of the faithful.”
This opening verse sets the tone for the psalm, calling the faithful to sing a “new song” to the Lord. In biblical tradition, a new song often signifies a fresh experience of God’s intervention, such as a victory or deliverance. The “assembly of the faithful” underscores the communal aspect of worship. Praise is not a private act alone but a collective celebration of God’s goodness. The Catechism teaches that liturgical prayer unites the faithful as one body, echoing this communal dimension of praise (CCC 1140).

Verse 2:
“Let Israel be glad in its maker, the people of Zion rejoice in their king.”
This verse connects joy with God’s role as Creator and King. To rejoice in the Maker is to celebrate the profound truth that all life comes from Him. God’s kingship is not merely political but deeply personal, rooted in His covenant with Israel. This verse reminds us that the source of true joy is found in God’s sovereign rule over our lives, a rule marked by love and fidelity.

Verse 3:
“Let them praise his name in dance, make music with tambourine and lyre.”
Here, the psalm emphasizes the physicality of worship. Praise is not just spoken but embodied through dance and music. These expressions symbolize the uncontainable joy of God’s people. Dance and music were integral to Israel’s worship, especially during festivals, reflecting an uninhibited response to God’s greatness. In modern liturgy, sacred music serves a similar purpose, lifting hearts and minds to God (CCC 1157).

Verse 4:
“For the Lord takes delight in his people, honors the poor with victory.”
This verse captures the heart of God’s relationship with His people: delight and care for the humble. God’s “delight” reflects His deep love, and His defense of the poor shows His justice. This verse is a reminder that God does not value worldly power or wealth but honors those who trust in Him, especially the lowly and marginalized. The Catechism affirms that God’s preferential love for the poor is central to His kingdom’s values (CCC 2448).

Verse 5:
“Let the faithful rejoice in their glory, cry out for joy on their couches.”
This verse speaks to the ongoing joy of God’s people, even in the intimacy of their homes. “Couches” symbolize rest and daily life, suggesting that praise is not confined to the temple but permeates every aspect of life. God’s blessings are not limited to moments of worship but extend to the everyday lives of the faithful.

Verse 6:
“With the praise of God in their mouths, and a two-edged sword in their hands.”
This verse shifts to a tone of readiness and vigilance. The “two-edged sword” symbolizes God’s justice and the responsibility of His people to uphold His laws. The sword is not a tool of aggression but a metaphor for God’s word, which is described in Hebrews 4:12 as “living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword.” This verse reminds us that praise is both an act of worship and a call to action in living out God’s justice.

Verse 9:
“To execute the judgments decreed for them—such is the glory of all God’s faithful. Hallelujah!”
The psalm concludes with a triumphant declaration of God’s justice. The “judgments decreed” refer to God’s victory over evil and the vindication of His people. The faithful are invited to share in this glory, not by their own merit but through their trust in God’s righteousness. The final “Hallelujah” is an exclamation of pure praise, inviting us to join in the eternal song of God’s triumph.

Teachings

The Church teaches that worship is central to the life of the believer, as it is both a response to God’s goodness and a participation in His divine plan. The Catechism emphasizes that liturgical prayer is the source and summit of Christian life, drawing believers into communion with God and one another (CCC 1324). Psalm 149 highlights the joy of worship, showing that praise is not a passive act but an active, communal celebration of God’s kingship. Saints like St. Augustine have written about the transformative power of praise, noting that when we praise God, we are lifted above our earthly struggles and reminded of our eternal destiny. Additionally, the psalm’s focus on the poor echoes the Church’s social teaching, which calls us to honor and defend the dignity of the vulnerable (CCC 2443).

Reflection

Psalm 149 invites us to examine the role of praise in our own lives. Do we approach worship with joy and gratitude, or do we let distractions diminish our connection to God? This psalm reminds us that worship is a celebration of God’s goodness, a recognition of His kingship, and a way to participate in His justice. In our daily lives, we can cultivate a spirit of praise by expressing gratitude for God’s blessings, participating fully in liturgical celebrations, and allowing music and prayer to draw us closer to Him.

Consider this: When was the last time you praised God with the joy described in this psalm? How can you make worship a central part of your daily life, even in the small moments? Let this psalm inspire you to live with a heart full of gratitude, trusting in God’s love and rejoicing in His victory.

Holy Gospel – John 3:22-30

He Must Increase: The Joy of Humility

The Gospel of John presents us with a profound moment in the ministry of John the Baptist, a man who exemplifies humility and submission to God’s will. This passage takes place in the region of Judea, where Jesus and John are both baptizing. The cultural and religious significance of baptism in this context reflects a ritual of repentance and purification, rooted in Jewish tradition but taking on new meaning with the arrival of the Messiah. The dialogue between John’s disciples and a Jew regarding ceremonial washings highlights the tension between old practices and the new covenant inaugurated by Christ. When John’s disciples express concern over Jesus’ growing popularity, John responds with words of profound humility: “He must increase; I must decrease.” This Gospel fits beautifully into today’s theme of joyful surrender, illustrating the freedom and fulfillment found in recognizing God’s authority and letting go of personal ambition.

John 3:22-30
New American Bible (Revised Edition)

Final Witness of the Baptist. ²² After this, Jesus and his disciples went into the region of Judea, where he spent some time with them baptizing. ²³ John was also baptizing in Aenon near Salim, because there was an abundance of water there, and people came to be baptized, ²⁴ for John had not yet been imprisoned. ²⁵ Now a dispute arose between the disciples of John and a Jew about ceremonial washings. ²⁶ So they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, the one who was with you across the Jordan, to whom you testified, here he is baptizing and everyone is coming to him.” ²⁷ John answered and said, “No one can receive anything except what has been given him from heaven. ²⁸ You yourselves can testify that I said [that] I am not the Messiah, but that I was sent before him. ²⁹ The one who has the bride is the bridegroom; the best man, who stands and listens to him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. So this joy of mine has been made complete. ³⁰ He must increase; I must decrease.”

Detailed Exegesis

Verse 22:
“After this, Jesus and his disciples went into the region of Judea, where he spent some time with them baptizing.”
This verse marks the transition in Jesus’ ministry as He begins to baptize alongside John the Baptist. Baptism here is a symbol of repentance and preparation for the kingdom of God. Jesus’ involvement in baptism underscores the importance of this act as a precursor to the transformative baptism of the Holy Spirit that He will later institute.

Verse 23:
“John was also baptizing in Aenon near Salim, because there was an abundance of water there, and people came to be baptized.”
John’s continued ministry in Aenon reflects his unwavering commitment to preparing the way for the Lord. The reference to “an abundance of water” highlights the practical need for baptism and symbolizes the overflowing grace of God available to all who seek Him. John’s popularity at this time demonstrates his pivotal role as a prophet and forerunner of Christ.

Verse 24:
“For John had not yet been imprisoned.”
This brief note provides a temporal marker, reminding the reader that John’s ministry is drawing to a close as Jesus’ ministry begins to take center stage. John’s eventual imprisonment and martyrdom will serve as a testament to his unwavering faith and submission to God’s will.

Verse 25:
“Now a dispute arose between the disciples of John and a Jew about ceremonial washings.”
This verse highlights a tension between the old covenant rituals and the new reality ushered in by Jesus. Ceremonial washings were central to Jewish religious life, symbolizing purification and readiness to approach God. However, the advent of Jesus introduces a deeper understanding of baptism as a sacrament of grace, pointing to the new covenant.

Verse 26:
“So they came to John and said to him, ‘Rabbi, the one who was with you across the Jordan, to whom you testified, here he is baptizing and everyone is coming to him.’”
John’s disciples express concern over Jesus’ growing following, perhaps out of loyalty to John or a misunderstanding of his mission. Their reaction reflects a human tendency toward rivalry and competition, even in spiritual matters. This moment sets the stage for John’s profound response, which redirects their focus to God’s plan.

Verse 27:
“John answered and said, ‘No one can receive anything except what has been given him from heaven.’”
John’s response is a powerful affirmation of God’s sovereignty. He recognizes that all gifts, including his own prophetic mission, come from God. This verse reminds us that our talents and vocations are not for our own glory but for God’s purposes.

Verse 28:
“You yourselves can testify that I said [that] I am not the Messiah, but that I was sent before him.”
John reiterates his role as the forerunner of Christ, emphasizing that he is not the Messiah but merely the one who prepares the way. This statement reflects John’s deep humility and understanding of his mission.

Verse 29:
“The one who has the bride is the bridegroom; the best man, who stands and listens to him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. So this joy of mine has been made complete.”
John uses the imagery of a wedding to describe his relationship to Jesus. As the “best man,” John takes joy in the success of the bridegroom, Jesus. His joy is not diminished by stepping aside; rather, it is fulfilled in seeing Christ glorified. This verse is a profound expression of selflessness and the joy found in serving God’s plan.

Verse 30:
“He must increase; I must decrease.”
This iconic statement encapsulates the heart of John’s ministry and his spiritual maturity. It is a call to every believer to surrender personal ambition and ego, allowing Christ to take center stage in their lives. John’s words are a model of humility and trust in God’s providence.

Teachings

This passage beautifully illustrates the Church’s teaching on humility and the call to self-emptying for the sake of God’s kingdom. The Catechism emphasizes that humility is the foundation of prayer and the pathway to holiness (CCC 2559). John’s words, “He must increase; I must decrease,” reflect the essence of Christian discipleship: recognizing that our lives are not our own but belong to Christ. The imagery of the bridegroom and the best man also connects to the Church’s understanding of Christ as the Bridegroom of the Church (CCC 796). This relationship invites us into a covenant of love and self-giving, mirroring the joy and unity described in the Gospel. Saints like St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross have written extensively on the joy of surrendering to God’s will, echoing John’s example of humility and trust.

Reflection

The Gospel invites us to reflect on our own call to humility and surrender. In a world that often values self-promotion and competition, John the Baptist’s words challenge us to reevaluate our priorities. How often do we seek recognition or cling to our own plans instead of allowing God to lead? John’s joy in seeing Christ increase reminds us that true fulfillment comes from letting go of our ego and trusting in God’s greater plan.

In our daily lives, we can live out this Gospel by seeking ways to put others before ourselves and by making space for Christ to take center stage in our hearts. Consider setting aside time each day to pray, asking God to help you decrease so that He may increase in your thoughts, words, and actions. Ask yourself: What areas of my life need more humility? How can I, like John, find joy in stepping aside so that Christ may be glorified? Let today’s Gospel inspire you to embrace the joy of humility and the freedom of surrendering to God’s perfect will.

A Heart That Decreases for Christ to Increase

Today’s readings beautifully intertwine the themes of joyful surrender, trust in God’s will, and the humility to let Christ take center stage in our lives. In the First Reading, St. John reminds us of the confidence we can have in prayer when we align our petitions with God’s will. He calls us to vigilance against sin and to rely on God’s protection from the evil one. The Responsorial Psalm invites us to praise God with joy, celebrating His kingship, His delight in His people, and His justice. It reminds us that true worship transforms not only our hearts but also our daily lives. Finally, in the Gospel, John the Baptist’s words—“He must increase; I must decrease”—reveal the deep joy and freedom found in stepping aside so that Christ may be glorified.

Together, these readings challenge us to embrace a life of humility, trust, and praise. They call us to let go of the idols, distractions, and pride that take God’s place in our hearts. Instead, we are invited to surrender, rejoicing in the knowledge that God’s plans are far greater than our own.

As you reflect on today’s message, ask yourself: Where is God asking me to decrease so that He may increase? How can I better align my prayers, my praise, and my daily choices with His will? Like John the Baptist, we are called to live as witnesses, preparing the way for Christ in our hearts and in the lives of those around us.

This week, make a conscious effort to surrender areas of your life that you may be holding too tightly. Let your prayers reflect trust in God’s perfect will. Praise Him not only in moments of worship but also in the small joys of everyday life. And, above all, find joy in allowing Christ to increase in you. In doing so, you will discover the freedom and peace that come from living fully for Him. He must increase; let us decrease—so that His light may shine through us to a world in need.

Engage with Us!

We’d love to hear how today’s readings speak to your heart! Share your reflections in the comments below and join the conversation as we journey together in faith. Here are a few questions to guide your reflection:

• First Reading: How do you approach prayer? Are there areas where you need to better align your requests with God’s will? What steps can you take to guard against sin and remain vigilant in your faith?
• Responsorial Psalm: How do you bring joy into your worship and daily life? Are there “idols” or distractions that might be keeping you from fully praising God?
• Holy Gospel: What does “He must increase; I must decrease” mean to you personally? How can you allow Christ to take a more central role in your life this week?

Let us strive to live each day with the faith, humility, and joy reflected in today’s readings. Together, let us commit to doing everything with the love and mercy Jesus taught us, allowing His light to shine through our words and actions. May our lives proclaim, “He must increase, and I must decrease.” Keep growing in faith, and know you are always in our prayers!

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