The Thrill of a Ministry's Collapse

In John 3:27-30, John the Baptizer has some interesting things to say in answer to his followers' observation that Jesus was gaining (stealing?) John's former flock.  Verse 30 is where John famously says, "He must increase, but I must decrease."  By itself, this is a stunning statement; in its context, it's even richer.  John's words right before this statement was that his joy had been completed through this collapse of his personal success which had served Jesus' success.  What incredible grace he was given to see clearly and truly!  He took both his obedient outward fame and its collapse as being according to the purposes of heaven and reveled in the greater glory which Christ was receiving.