Homily: Janaury 11, 2025 Saturday after Epiphany (Increase-Decrease)

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 "He must increase; I must decrease."

From this very simple statement, we can very clearly see the attitude of John the Baptist towards his mission - humility.

John was a fearless man, he was not at all afraid of the Jewish authorities and preached courageously what he believed he was sent to do, he stood resolutely for truth and justice, not at all bothered about the cost or consequence. Nothing could stop him from speaking the truth.

Yet, this aggressive preacher from the wilderness was humble, modest and meek when he acknowledges the presence of the Messiah. He recognized that his work, his purpose, his existence was done and must give way to the Lord.

Tradition tells us that John the Baptist lived an ascetic life before his public ministry — a life of pure simplicity and total detachment, right down to the food he ate. Such a life demands complete abandonment of self and dedication to the mission. He lived with only one purpose – to accomplish the mission he was born for – to prepare the way for the Lord, it was everything about the Messiah, and nothing about himself at all.

This attitude is so unthinkable in this world. This world promotes and professes that ‘I and me’ are the most important persons in life. Self-confidence, self-actualization, self-fulfillment are achievements celebrated higher than anything else in life.

We go around life with the attitude that ‘I know better, I am more powerful, I am always right’. In group interactions, we tend to assert ourselves, dominate the scene, belittle others, and aim to win every argument. We make sure others decrease, so that we can increase.

Over time, even God is reduced to nothing and is disregarded completely. Church teachings become areas to be contested and challenged just to showcase our superior intellect and clever logic.

Today, we look to St. John the Baptist. When Jesus began His public ministry, John’s popularity started to fade. His disciples left to follow Jesus. Yet John wasn’t resentful or jealous. Instead, he rejoiced in Jesus’ growing ministry and pointed his followers to go with Jesus.

Do we look down on John? Or are we more inspired and impressed?

John’s humility teaches us that true greatness lies not in elevating ourselves but in elevating Christ.

As true Christians, let us pray for the same virtue of humility. May we learn to decrease our ego and pride so that Christ can increase in our hearts and minds, and in our life.

He must increase; I must decrease.

Amen.

 


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