Today's Gospel reading brought back memories of my childhood, when my parents loved to entertain on weekends.I remember my mother worked in the kitchen all day and then when dinner was ready, you would never see her with a plate. She just sat in her chair observing everyone chatting and enjoying themselves. One day, I finally asked her, "Mom, why do you always do that? Why do you always put yourself last?" And she smiled and said, "Well, someone has to. And besides, seeing you all happy and taken care of, that's what fills me up."
In the Gospel of Mark, we encounter James and John, two disciples who approach Jesus with a rather ambitious request. They yearn to be at his side when he comes into his glory. "Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory," they implore.
This request, while seemingly bold, reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of Jesus' mission and the nature of true greatness. James and John, like many of us, are caught up in worldly notions of power and authority. They envision a kingdom where status and dominance reign supreme.
But Jesus gently redirects their focus, reminding them that true greatness lies not in ruling over others, but in serving them. "Whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant," he declares. "Whoever wishes to be first among you must be the slave of all."
This teaching profoundly challenges our deeply ingrained human tendencies. We are often driven by ambition, by the desire for recognition and control. Yet, Jesus calls us to a different path, a path of humility and selflessness.
He reminds us that even he, the Son of Man, "came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." His example of ultimate service, of giving his life for the salvation of humanity, sets the standard for all disciples.
This Gospel passage invites us to reflect on our own lives. Are we seeking true greatness, the greatness that comes from serving others? Or are we chasing after worldly ambitions and empty honors?
How can we embrace this call to servant leadership in our daily lives?
To begin with, we can practice servant leadership in our families by putting the needs of our loved ones before our own, by offering support and understanding. Stepping outside our homes, we find opportunities to serve by volunteering our time and talents to those in need, by working for justice and peace. Even in our workplaces, we can strive to serve by treating our colleagues with respect and dignity, by being willing to lend a helping hand.
The path of servant leadership is not always easy. It requires sacrifice, humility, and a willingness to put others first. But it is the path that leads to true greatness, the greatness that reflects the heart of Christ.
Loving Father,
Thank you for the reminder that true greatness lies in serving others, just as your Son, Jesus, came not to be served but to serve. Help me to release my grip on worldly ambitions and the desire for recognition. Guide me to follow the path of humility and selflessness, putting the needs of others before my own, in my family, my community, and my workplace. Fill me with your grace that I may become a true servant to all.
Amen.