Matthew 20:17-28 & Luke 16:19-31
As citizen, customers and clients in a largely dis-connected and self-centred society we have been taught that we have a right to service. After all, we ‘pay for it’, whether directly though cash transfer payments, or indirectly through taxes. Moreover, society dictates that the more successful or privileged I am, the more services are at my command. Even two thousand years ago the mother of the sons of Zebedee was envisioning the services her sons would receive sitting in the most powerful and privileged seats in Jesus’ kingdom. Jesus’ reply? “Whoever wishes to be great among you must be your servant.” What is the role of a servant according to Jesus? Giving His life as a ransom for many. What are my responsibilities as a servant like Jesus? Our Lord calls me to pour out my life by ministering to Him in each hungry, lonely or oppressed person I meet, being actively engaged in physical and spiritual acts of mercy, and ‘washing the feet’ of the world as He instructed his disciples at the Last Supper. Am I prepared to live into my position as servant in the Kingdom of God? Christ Jesus, in each prayer, conversation, and activity, help me strive not to be served, but to serve. How wonderful are the good things you keep for those who honour you. (Psalm 31:19) The mystery of our ministry is that we’re called to serve not with our power, but with our powerlessness. Henri Nouwen, The Selfless Way of Christ: Downward mobility and the Spiritual Life www.gospelmysteryoftheday.weebly.com & Gospel Mystery of the Day on Facebook Soli ad gloriam dei
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AuthorBeverly Illauq lives in Kemptville, Ontario, where she greets each morning by seeking the Gospel Mystery of the Day - the Word of the Lord for direct and practical application to the specific challenges & joys of the day. ArchivesCategories |