25TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME B
IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF
THE HUMBLE ONE
Are we sometimes tempted to
idolize the first disciples of the Lord Jesus for their generous response to his
call to follow him, for their grasp of the meaning of their choice, and for
their commitment to the way of Jesus? Well, think again!
The gospel today gives us an
honest picture of the disciples’ own bumpy ride towards becoming true and
faithful followers. As Jesus was teaching them about his passion and cross,
none of them understood his words. None of them likewise, had the courage to
clarify muddled points with him. On top of that, just as Jesus was illustrating
his path to humility, they began to compete with each other for position!
Thanks to Jesus’ gentleness and
patience towards his friends, instead of berating them for their slow
comprehension he invited them, through an illustration, to follow him on the
path of humility. “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all
and the servant of all.” What does this mean for us?
Today, even among Christians,
humility has fallen out of fashion. We are aware of the common diseases of the
ego – low self-esteem, tendency to depression, personal traumas and tragedies. In
order to release people from these, we promote intense focus on self-interest and
appreciation, and on pride and fulfillment. Jesus understands every person’s
need to establish a strong basis for the self and a healing of wounds that paralyze
confidence and self-worth. Attaining humility should not be at the expense of
healthy self-image.
True humility consists of two
elements: first, knowledge of our immense potential as men and women made in
the image of God our Father, and second, awareness of the many limitations we
have in realizing our potential. We are blessed; we are gifted! And yet, we
must admit, we are not perfectly able to receive God’s love fully and joyfully.
Thus, we need God’s help and the support of our brothers and sisters in faith.
If we know we are blessed and
that we accomplish all good things through God, should we not feel gratitude
instead of pride? If we are convinced that we rely on each other for support,
should we not trust one another more, than declare our superiority over each other?
Lord Jesus, lead me by your word
and example to desire to be “the last of all and the servant of all.” Amen.
