1 John 5:14-21; Ps 149:1-2. 3-4. 5-6a, 9b; John 3:22-30
We are familiar with the expression "always the bridesmaid, never the bride" but it is also true that some are always the best man, never the groom. That does not apply in any sensible way to those who embrace the celibate life in community or in the priesthood as those who can take that on, are blessed by the fruits of a life of service: fruits which mostly are benefiting others.
John the Baptist was one such - and he summed up the vocation to the single life in todays words - the epilogue, really, of John the Evangelist's large section of Gosple given over to the life and ministry of John the Baptist.
John says "He must increase, but I must decrease". That is the attitude we should all take, when comparing our unworthy selves to the vocational life (whatever nature that might have) which God is asking us to take on, in the name of Jesus.