Pointing

There is a Zen Buddhist saying, "Don't mistake the finger pointing at the moon for the moon."

John the Baptist is pointing so hard at Jesus.

"I am not the Messiah." It's not me.

"I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandal." I'm just a pointing finger.

"I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, 'Make straight the way of the Lord.'" Stop looking at me. Look towards him.

"Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" There he is! He's the One. Follow him.

In the Daily Office reading assigned from the Gospel of John (3:22-30), we see that John has had some success with his pointing. Many of his disciples have abandoned him and are now following Christ. John -- ecstatic -- cries, "My joy has been fulfilled." But his remaining followers are upset. They complain that "all are going to [Jesus]."

The success of John's ministry is measured by numbers. His most faithful disciples see failure in the diminishing numbers. John sees success. After all, his ministry is one of pointing, of teaching his disciples how to see and where to go. It is a testimony to his work that many recognize Christ and leave John's fold.

To those who remain with him, John pointedly reminds, "You yourselves are my witnesses that I said 'I am not the Messiah,'" and "He must increase, but I must decrease." It's still not me.

As so often happens with great teachers, preachers, and leaders, some followers fall in love with the message, while others fall in love with the messenger.

As I prepare yet again for the coming of Christ, this Gospel raises a troubling question. Which kind of follower am I?

John is pointing so hard. Will I see? Will I go?