Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Gospel – Mark 9:30-37

Jesus and his disciples left from there and began a journey through Galilee, but he did not wish anyone to know about it. He was teaching his disciples and telling them, “The Son of Man is to be handed over to men and they will kill him, and three days after his death the Son of Man will rise.” But they did not understand the saying, and they were afraid to question him.

They came to Capernaum and, once inside the house, he began to ask them, “What were you arguing about on the way?” But they remained silent. They had been discussing among themselves on the way who was the greatest. Then he sat down, called the Twelve, and said to them, “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.” Taking a child, he placed the child in their midst, and putting his arms around the child, he said to them, “Whoever receives one child such as this in my name, receives me; and whoever receives me, receives not me but the One who sent me.”

Reflection

Humility, that’s what we are called to today in this Gospel. Jesus is teaching us that to be first in the Kingdom of God we must be last. We are called to service. By humbling ourselves in the service of God we surrender to God and God’s plans for us. We are relieved of the burden of pride and we no longer have to keep up appearances. And by not having to keep up appearances we are free to do the will of God.

Action

Free now to do the will of God in humility and service, offer your services in whatever way you can assist. Maybe there is a food pantry in your community where you can help. Perhaps the local daycare center could use your help after school. Pray for guidance and you will find where you are needed the most.