“Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant;
whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all.”

mark 10:43-44

Mark 10:35-45

Reflection

James and John ask to be seated at the right and left sides of Jesus in heaven. Jesus tells them they don’t know what they are asking and proceeds to tell all the disciples that whoever wishes to be great will be the servant among them. Additionally, he says they will all endure suffering for his sake – drinking Jesus’ cup and being baptized like him.

For us, this Gospel is a great reminder that following Christ requires humility and suffering. We have all experienced some type of suffering because of our faith; it is essential for growing in our faith and love for Jesus. With suffering, we grow in trust of the Lord, that he will carry us through the difficult times.

Humility is also very important – we must seek to be the servant of all and the least of all. This comes with a degree of suffering as well: loss in status and pride, which may be more difficult for some. However, Jesus tells us he came to serve and to give his life for many. We, too, are called to do this in our own unique way, perhaps in family life or the workplace.

Reflect on ways in which you can serve others with a humble spirit. How is Jesus calling you to suffer for him with humility? He will give you the grace and strength to follow his call and path.

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Saint of the Day

St. Adelina: died 1125

St. Adelina was a French noblewoman and granddaughter of William the Conqueror. She became the abbess of a local Benedictine convent.

St. Adelina, pray for us!