To make Jesus grow in our life

“It must increase; I have to decrease. "John 3:30

These powerful and prophetic words of Saint John the Baptist should resonate in our hearts every day. They help set the tone for all that we are and what we must become. What do these words mean? Clearly, there are two things that John says here: 1) Jesus must increase, 2) We must decrease.

First of all, Jesus growing in our life is the primary goal we must have. What exactly does this mean? It means it takes more possession of our mind and will. It means it owns us and we own it. It means that our number one goal and desire in life is the fulfillment of his holy will in all things. It means that fear is put aside and charity becomes our reason for living. It is very liberating to allow the Lord to grow in our lives. It's liberating in the sense that we no longer have to try to manage ourselves. Jesus now lives in and through us.

Second, when John says he must decrease, it means that his will, his desires, his ambitions, his hopes, etc., must dissolve when Jesus takes over. It means that all selfishness must be abandoned and the altruistic life must be the founding principle of our life. To "diminish" before God means that we become humble. Humility is a way to renounce all that is not of God and allow God alone to shine.

Reflect today on this beautiful affirmation of St. John the Baptist. Turn it into a prayer and repeat it again and again. Let it become the guiding principle of your life.

Sir, you have to increase and I have to decrease. Please come and take full possession of my soul. Transform my mind and heart, guide my will, emotions and desires. And allow me to become a holy tool in your divine life. Jesus I believe in you.