Happy And FreeSample

A young art museum guide had a simple job: lead people to the paintings, answer their questions, and step out of the way. Initially he succeeded. He walked the clients to the framed treasures, identified the artists, and stepped out of view. 

“This is a Monet,” he would say and move back as people oohed and aahed and asked a question or two. When they were ready, he would lead them to the next masterpiece and repeat the sequence. “This is the work of Rembrandt.” He stepped back; they leaned in. He stood; they stared. Simple job. Delightful job. He took great pride in his work. Too much pride, one might say. 

For in a short time, he forgot his role. He began thinking the people had come to see him. Rather than step away from the work of art, he lingered near it. As they oohed and aahed, he smiled, “Glad you like it,” he replied, chest lifting and face blushing. He even responded with an occasional “Thank you,” taking credit for work he didn’t do. Visitors disregarded his comments. 

But they couldn’t dismiss his movements. Lingering near a painting was no longer sufficient for the guide. Little by little, he inched toward it. Initially extending his arm over the frame, then his torso over part of the canvas. Finally his body blocked the entire piece. People could see him, but not the art. The very work he was sent to reveal he began to conceal. That’s when his supervisor had to intervene. “This job isn’t about you. Don’t obscure the masterpieces.”

How does Jesus become greater in my life? Is there something that’s consistently getting in the way?