May 4

Second Fiddle

Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalm 65:9-13 | Judges 19:1-20:48 | John 3:22- 4:3 | Proverbs 14:22-24

Today’s Scripture Focus:  John 3:22- 4:3

You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before him.’  [29] The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is now complete.  [30] He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:28-30 ESV).  

A famous conductor was asked, “What is the most difficult instrument to play in the orchestra?”  He answered, “Second fiddle.” Why?  I think it is mostly because it requires humility.  Often the person playing in the second chair has worked just as hard and is just as good musically, but he or she has to take the second chair so that there can be harmony.

John the Baptist knew that he was called to play second fiddle. “He must increase, but I must decrease.”  John’s disciples struggled with fact that the crowds were now going to Jesus.  John assured them that this was just as God had ordained it.  

He understood that he was the “best man” who was to find joy in attending to the bridegroom and listening to his voice.

We too are called to decrease that Christ may increase.  As we humble ourselves, listen to the voice of the bridegroom and attend to his wishes, we find our joy complete.

Harmony in the body of Christ requires that we learn to “play second fiddle.” The lessons of humility are not easy ones, but they are essential to bringing harmony to lives and relationships.

Heavenly Father, please give me a humble heart that is willing to take second place, that is always willing to serve. May I decrease that Jesus may increase. Amen.