WHAT IS MY STATUS?
In
a culture where status is of utmost importance, the disciples jostle
for high positions and status. Jesus is very quick to admonish His
followers against getting involved in high positions. He reminds them
that they should remain low-key while serving the Kingdom of God. For
Mark, the messianic secret is a common theme in the Gospel. Jesus is
quick to correct their views of Himself as Messiah, as His messiahship
will be different from the political understanding they are used to.
Among us, there is also that jostling for positions. We see it
manifested in our actions and in the actions of others. It is also
obvious in the Church circle at times. Everyone wants to be noticed and
addressed in special roles.
The follower of Jesus is not after positions of glory. These positions
of glory and fame belong to the rich and famous. Jesus confirms the
disciples in the mission — they will suffer and drink the cup, they will
be tested and baptized in the trials and persecutions of being a
Christian. In these things they will not be spared. Notice how the two
Apostles — James and John — begin an argument among the others. Such is
their mentality on the status of each other. They just do not get it!
Are you a person who jostles for position? Are you one who craves for
others to see how important you are? There is no need for this — we are
all unique in the eyes of God. To the extent that we celebrate our
uniqueness will be the extent that we are comfortable with ourselves and
less likely to fall into jealousy, resentment, backstabbing and the
other evils associated with pride.
Jesus asks us the same question today: “What do you want Me to do for
you?” Let us understand, like James and John, the fishermen, that we are
in a privileged position to be disciples of Jesus. He has called us to
Himself. We are unworthy of such a calling yet we submit to the Lord in
humble obedience and love — for the glory of God and His kingdom. Fr. Brian Steele, MGL
REFLECTION QUESTION: Are you willing to serve others as Jesus has served you by laying down His life for you?
Lord, forgive us our sins of pride and our tendency to always seek to be the center of attention. Amen.
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