Fading out, Fading in

Change is in the wind. Transition is a process of letting go in order to grasp the new thing.

Sometimes the process is swift and decisive, leaving us reeling and wondering where to grab on to something – anything – simply to stay oriented.

Or the process can be slow, planned and deliberate. And we are still left reeling and wondering, reluctant to let go of the familiar.

Observe this phenomenon in John 3:22-30. John the Baptist has been preparing the way for Jesus of Nazareth. The time has come to pass the baton, but John’s followers are reluctant to switch allegiance. John is firm that the time has come. He must fade out in order for Jesus to fade in and set about what he has come to accomplish – their common goal.