Daily Reflection for Wednesday March 03, 2021
Peace and Blessings, Friends and Parishioners,
We encourage you to reflect on Wednesday’s readings at this link:
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/030321.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: Jeremiah 18:18-20
Responsorial: Psalm 31: 5-6, 14, 15-16
Gospel: Matthew 20: 17-28
Our reflection on Wednesday’s readings:
“Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave.” Matthew 20: 26-27
Jesus teaches what greatness really is and what it means to love in today’s Gospel. Out of “love” for James and John and perhaps to gain a proud moment for herself, their mother asks for seats of importance for them in the kingdom of God. At some level, parents can relate to this request as we all want the best for our children. In the long run, places of importance, accolades for accomplishments or other cultural signs of greatness and success often leave us unhappy and send us off course. Isaiah 33:2 asks, “Why do you … labor for that which does not satisfy?” Isaiah knows and reminds us that we are not satisfied because our hearts only find momentary happiness/greatness in pursuits that build up our love of self.
Jesus responded to this mother’s request and suggested a different road for greatness, a greatness that is eternal. Greatness that brings joy. “Whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant,” he said. Chris Stefanick, in his book Living Joy says the paradox of the cross is a spiritual law that shows us “the only way to find joy is to forget your own quest and help others find it. The only way to truly shine is to help others shine.” So, to achieve “greatness” is to love beyond what benefits us by serving and putting others first.
We were not created to tightly grasp love but to give it away. God created us in His image and likeness, which is love. We are formed out of love and sent on a mission to love. He also sent His Love in the form of Jesus, who demonstrated by His actions and His words what the ultimate expression of love looks like.
As I think about sacrificial love in my own corner of the world, I must admit that I am on the road but have not arrived. How does one redirect their mind from self-love to love of others? St. Mother Theresa said, “Do small things with great love.” When making decisions, do you consider only the benefit to yourself? When you talk to others do you spread your anger or your love in the words you say? Does the time in your week belong to you or God? Perhaps these are good starting points.
No matter where we are on the journey learning to love others, we can take the next step, even if small. Finally, do not ever forget the power in asking Jesus for help. With an open heart, anything is possible for our Lord!
Blessings for the journey!
Paula Paul