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 it in their midst, and putting his arms around it, 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.”
Sermon
My brothers and sisters in Christ, today's Gospel passage presents us with a stark contrast between Jesus' teaching and the disciples' understanding. Jesus shares with them the shocking truth of his impending death and resurrection, but they fail to grasp it.
Instead, they are preoccupied with their own status and power, arguing among themselves about who is the greatest. But Jesus turns their thinking upside down.
"If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all." These words challenge our conventional notions of leadership and greatness.
Jesus illustrates this point by embracing a child, symbolizing vulnerability and humility. "Whoever receives one child such as this in my name, receives me." In the kingdom of God, true greatness is found in serving others.
This passage invites us to reflect on our own values and priorities. Are we seeking power and status, or are we willing to serve and surrender?
May we be inspired by Jesus' example to live lives of humility and service.
Prayer
Let us pray: + In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Almighty, merciful, and loving God, we thank you for the example of Jesus, who showed us the true meaning of greatness through his humility and service.
Help us to understand your upside-down kingdom, where the last shall be first and the servant of all is the greatest.
We pray for humility and a willingness to serve others. May our motivations and priorities align with yours.
Guide us as we seek to prioritize the vulnerable and marginalized. Show us practical ways to serve and support those in need.
We pray for our church to be a beacon of servant-leadership, reflecting Jesus' love and compassion.
Thank you for Jesus' teaching and example. May we follow his lead in surrendering our pride and ambition.
In Jesus' most holy name we pray, Amen.
Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,
Rev. Fr. Jhimerson Maneclang,SCJ