Gospel 

Luke 9:46-50

An argument arose among the disciples about which of them was the greatest. Jesus realized the intention of their hearts and took a child and placed it by his side and said to them, "Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest." Then John said in reply, "Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow in our company." Jesus said to him, "Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you."

Sermon

My brothers and sisters in Christ, today's Gospel presents two contrasting attitudes:

1. Competition for greatness among the disciples

2. Jesus' teaching on humility and service

An argument arose among the disciples:

- Who is the greatest?

- Jesus' response: Receive a child in My name, receive Me

Key principles:

- Humility is true greatness

- Service to others is service to God

- Inclusion, not exclusion

Jesus' illustration:

- A child represents vulnerability, dependence, and innocence

- Receiving a child = receiving Jesus = receiving God

John's concern:

- Someone casting out demons outside their group

- Jesus' response: Don't prevent; whoever is not against you is for you

This passage challenges us:

1. To reevaluate our understanding of greatness

2. To prioritize humility and service

3. To embrace inclusivity and unity

As followers of Christ, we must:

- Recognize the value of humility

- Serve others with love and compassion

- Welcome those serving God outside our circles

May we walk the path of true greatness, guided by Jesus' teachings.

May God empower us to walk the path of true greatness, guided by Jesus' teachings. Amen.

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 pray for humility and a servant's heart, recognizing true greatness in Your eyes.

Guide us to serve others with love and compassion, embracing vulnerability and dependence.

Help us welcome those serving You beyond our circles, unity and cooperation in Christian service.

Thank you for Jesus' teachings, guiding us on the path to true greatness.

We pray for:

- Humility and servant's heart

- Guidance in serving others

- Unity and cooperation in Christian service

- Recognition of God's work beyond our circles

- Thanksgiving for Jesus' teachings

In Jesus' most holy name, Amen.

Prayer for Humility:

Lord, create in me a humble heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.

Help me serve others with love and compassion.

May Your greatness be my guide and goal. Amen.

May God empower us to walk the path of true greatness, guided by Jesus' teachings.

+ In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,

Rev. Fr. Jhimerson Maneclang,SCJ