RBWords

     Occasionally a translation uses a term that is clearly a cultural expression designed for a particular audience.  Today we find one of those in the use of the term "best man" to describe the role of John the Baptist in relation to Jesus!  Our American bishops decided that the Greek term philos, which usually means "friend" and is translated that way in other translations, doesn't quite capture the relationship of John the Baptist to Jesus, at least not in the context of the scene.  So they translated it as "best man."

     The choice of a best man or maid of honor at one's wedding is a public expression of esteem and closeness between the groom/bride and the one chosen.  One thing has to be certain, however, the best man and maid of honor are not allowed to distract attention from the groom/bride!!  Those two witnesses are there in a supportive role, e.g. provide the rings or hold the bride's bouquet/make sure the bride's dress is properly managed for photos!!  They also offer  toasts at the reception {usually long ones].  John the Baptist gives the best toast of all:  "He must increase; I must decrease!" 

     All four gospels each have their own way of "managing" the role of John the Baptist in the story of Jesus, but tomorrow, the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, the focus must be on Jesus and not on John.  It is another example of "epiphany" in which Jesus' true identity is manifested, even if the future disciples had no idea what it meant.  We are in a different position.   To proclaim the Lord, we have to put aside our own tastes for glory and accept the role the Lord has given us as best man or maid of honor!  AMEN