Today is the twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time.
In today’s Gospel we hear about the disciples discussing who among them is the greatest. It sounds like Muhammad Ali could have been there. He was always saying that he was the greatest. Ali was a great boxer, and I think his “greatest” talk was part of his show, but with due respect I think we know who really is the greatest.
Jesus tells the disciples, and us, that we need to be servants. It happens that I went to Atlanta and had lunch with an old friend and former coworker the other day. He mentioned to me that he was teaching about servant leadership in his adult Sunday school at church. Being a servant can be integrated into many different activities. Our work, our personal social relationships, and so many more.
So often, because of our pride, we feel the need to be the center of attention. St. James warns against “jealousy and selfish ambition” in our second reading. Jesus uses a child to demonstrate how we should be subservient to God and, by extension, be servants of others.
I know how difficult all this can be. In the workplace it’s oh so easy to fall into the trap of pride and ego instead of service. I’ve seen it in myself and in others. The good news is that for most of us work isn’t real life. If we are well grounded in the rest of our life we can usually keep our heads on straight and not be too consumed with this question of greatness.
So, today let’s remember what we’re being called to. It’s service and not prideful greatness. God is the great One.
That’s it for now. Thanks for reading.
I hope you have a great week.
Peace, Bob
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