In Mark 6:14–16 Jesus’ fame caused many to speculate that he was the reincarnation of John the Baptist or Elijah. King Herod, who had beheaded the former, was convinced it was John. John the Baptist’s baptism of Jesus had inaugurated his ministry. His imprisonment by Herod was a sign for Jesus’ ministry to take front and center stage and his death foreshadowed what would eventually happen to Jesus. John was a true serving leader who recognized that Jesus must increase while he decreased. Jesus’ fame would far outstrip his own. He had served his purpose in preparing for the Messiah. John pointed his own disciples away from himself toward the one who was greater. Similarly, Jesus removed himself from his disciples after he had accomplished his ultimate purpose of dying on the cross for the world’s sins. They would do a greater work by multiplying his singular impact after he returned to the Father.

Lead, love, and serve, like Jesus!

KEY QUESTIONS: Who has played a significant role in setting me up for success? How am I setting others up for success? In what ways am I preparing others for a greater work than my own? What might I do to decrease so others can increase?