Jesus tells us that the greatest will be the least. Brian Kemper, SJ, reflects on embracing Christ’s call to self-forgetfulness in service to others. Based on the readings from the Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time.
What is holding us back from serving others?
Hi, I’m Brian Kemper and this is my one minute reflection.
Pope Francis tells us that the joy of the Gospel is for all people and that no one is excluded. In today’s Gospel, James and John are worrying about their status in the eyes of God. Jesus responds by saying: “the great among you will be the servant of all.” His call is simple: to love and serve others.
How often, though, do we find ourselves concerned about our own status, personal wealth, or what other people think about us? When we get too caught up in our own “greatness,” we run out of room in our hearts and minds for others. Setting aside our desire for personal glory allows us to better understand his call that sends us out into the world to walk with the poor, the marginalized, the outcast – all through the lens of God’s love.
Let’s use this Gospel as an opportunity to reflect on the ways in which we, too, can leave behind the things that keep us from seeking a spirit of service in the light of Christ.
