Healing into Humble Action

 

Gospel 

 Luke 4:38-44

38 After Jesus left the synagogue, he entered the house of Simon. Simon’s mother-in-law was afflicted with a severe fever, and they interceded with him about her. 39 He stood over her, rebuked the fever, and it left her. She got up immediately and waited on them. 40 At sunset, all who had people sick with various diseases brought them to him. He laid his hands on each of them and cured them. 41 And demons also came out from many, shouting, “You are the Son of God.” But he rebuked them and did not allow them to speak because they knew that he was the Christ. 42 At daybreak, Jesus left and went to a deserted place. The crowds went looking for him, and when they came to him, they tried to prevent him from leaving them. 43 But he said to them, “To the other towns also I must proclaim the good news of the Kingdom of God, because for this purpose I have been sent.” 44 And he was preaching in the synagogues of Judea.

Historical Background

This passage takes place in Capernaum, a fishing village on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Jesus had just taught in the synagogue and healed a man possessed by a demon (Luke 4:31–37).

Jesus enters the home of Simon Peter, whose mother-in-law is sick with a high fever. Homes in that era were modest, often with shared living spaces, and hospitality was a sacred duty.

As Sabbath ends at sunset, people begin bringing the sick to Jesus—highlighting both the communal concern and the growing reputation of Jesus as a healer.

Jesus retreats early the next morning to pray, a common practice among Jewish teachers and prophets seeking solitude with God.

Theological Context

Jesus rebukes the fever and casts out demons, demonstrating divine authority over both physical and spiritual affliction. Demons recognize Him as “the Son of God,” but Jesus silences them—perhaps to avoid premature or misunderstood declarations of His messianic role.

 

Jesus resists the crowd’s desire to keep Him in Capernaum, affirming His purpose: to preach the Kingdom of God to other towns. This reflects His obedience to the Father’s will and the universal scope of His mission.

Learning Lessons 

Jesus didn’t let popularity distract Him from His calling. We too must discern between good opportunities and God’s assignments.  Even amid success and demand, Jesus prioritizes communion with the Father. Solitude and prayer are not luxuries—they’re lifelines.

The crowd wanted to keep Jesus for themselves. But the Gospel is meant to be shared, not monopolized. True healing often leads to grateful action.

Healing into Humble Action

At Simon’s doorstep, fever fled,

A whispered word, the sick were led.

Hands outstretched in twilight’s glow,

Mercy moved where pain did grow.

Demons shrieked, “You are the One!”

But silence fell—His work not done.

He rose before the morning light,

To seek the Father out of sight.

Crowds would cling, but He would go,

To sow the seeds where none yet know.

O Lord, whose touch the soul revives,

Let healing bloom in servant lives.

Lord Jesus,

You entered the home of Simon and brought healing with a word. You touched the broken, silenced the tormentors, and restored the weary. Yet even in acclaim, You withdrew to pray—anchored in the Father’s will.

Teach me to serve like Simon’s mother-in-law, to rise from healing into humble action. Help me not to cling to You selfishly, but to share You freely with those who hunger for hope.

Give me discernment to follow Your mission, and the courage to walk where You lead. In Your name, the name above all names, 

Amen.

Pericope:

IV: The Ministry in Galilee

THE CURE OF SIMON'S MOTHER-IN-LAW / OTHER HEALINGS / JESUS LEAVES CAPERNAUM

Luke 4:38-39 / 40-41 / 42-44

Gospel Acclamation

The Lord sent me to bring glad tidings to the poor and to proclaim liberty to captives.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Serve with Utmost Humility

 

"The greatest among you 

must be your servant. 

Whoever exalts himself 

will be humbled; 

but whoever humbles himself

will be exalted.” 

(Matthew 23:11-12)

Greatness comes from serving others, not from seeking personal glory. True leadership is rooted in humility, not in self-promotion. 

We should align our actions with our words and values. Spiritual practices should be genuine acts of devotion, not performances aimed at impressing others. Authenticity in our relationship with God is key.

To rise above, one must stoop low, 

For seeds of greatness in service grow. 

Not in the throne, nor in the crown, 

But where hearts lift the weary and down.

A servant's hands, so rough yet kind, 

Hold the power to change a mind. 

For deeds of care, unseen, unsought, 

Outshine all glories fame has brought.

The humble path, though hard to tread, 

Leads where angels gently spread, 

Wings of grace to those who give, 

A life of love is a life to live.

So let us bow, not to be small, 

But to uplift and serve them all. 

For in such acts, the truth's unfurled, 

The servant’s heart redeems the world.

Lord Jesus,

You came not to be served, but to serve, humble in heart, washing the feet of others, teaching us that true greatness lies in selfless love.

Help me, Lord, to follow Your example, to place the needs of others above my own. Grant me the strength to serve with joy, And the humility to embrace the smallest tasks.

Teach me to see Your face in those I serve, to love without expectation, and to give without counting the cost.

May my actions reflect Your grace, and may my heart mirror Your humility. Exalt me, not in status, but in spirit, So I may glorify You in all that I do.

Amen.

Pericope:

VI: Ministry in Judea and Jerusalem

DENUNCIATION OF THE SCRIBES AND PHARISEES

Matthew 23:1-36

Gospel Acclamation

Cast away from you all the crimes you have committed, says the Lord, and make for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit.

Gospel | Matthew 23:1-12

1 Jesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples, 2 saying, “The scribes and the Pharisees have taken their seat on the chair of Moses. 3 Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example. For they preach but they do not practice. 4 They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them. 5 All their works are performed to be seen. They widen their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels. 6 They love places of honor at banquets, seats of honor in synagogues, 7 greetings in marketplaces, and the salutation ‘Rabbi.’ 8 As for you, do not be called ‘Rabbi.’ You have but one teacher, and you are all brothers. 9 Call no one on earth your father; you have but one Father in heaven. 10 Do not be called ‘Master’; you have but one master, the Christ. 11 The greatest among you must be your servant. 12 Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

March 18, 2025, 7:54 AM

True Greatness

Gospel
Matthew 20:20-28

20 The mother of the sons of Zebedee approached Jesus with her sons and did him homage, wishing to ask him for something. 21 He said to her, “What do you wish?” She answered him, “Command that these two sons of mine sit, one at your right and the other at your left, in your Kingdom.” 22 Jesus said in reply, “You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?” They said to him, “We can.” 23 He replied, “My chalice you will indeed drink, but to sit at my right and at my left, this is not mine to give but is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” 24 When the ten heard this, they became indignant at the two brothers. 25 But Jesus summoned them and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and the great ones make their authority over them felt. 26 But it shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant; 27 whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave. 28 Just so, the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.” 

Jesus teaches that true greatness comes from serving others, not from seeking power or status. All of us have a common human desire for recognition and honor. Jesus redirects this ambition towards humility and selflessness, teaching that the greatest in the Kingdom of God are those who serve others. The cost of true discipleship involves self-denial and a willingness to endure suffering for the sake of others. Let us trust in God’s plan and timing, lead with humility and compassion, putting the needs of others before our own rather than striving for our own ambitions.

In a world that seeks the highest place,

Where power and status often race,

Jesus calls us to a different way,

To serve with love, to humbly stay.

True greatness lies not in the throne,

But in the hearts that love has sown.

In acts of kindness, small and grand,

We find the touch of Jesus’ hand.

Ambitions rise, desires for fame,

Yet Jesus redirects the flame.

To humble paths, to selfless deeds,

Where true fulfillment intercedes.

The greatest in God’s Kingdom bright,

Are those who serve with all their might.

Who put aside their own desires,

To light the world with holy fires.

Discipleship, a costly call,

To bear the cross, to give our all.

In self-denial, suffering’s face,

We find the depth of Jesus’ grace.

So let us trust in God’s own plan,

With humble hearts, let’s take a stand.

To lead with love, compassion’s art,

And put the needs of others first.

For in this path, we truly find,

A peace that fills both heart and mind.

Not seeking power, but to serve,

In Jesus’ steps, we find our nerve.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with hearts open to Your wisdom and love. You have taught us that true greatness is found in serving others, not in seeking power or status. Help us to internalize this lesson and live it out in our daily lives.

Lord, we recognize our human desire for recognition and honor. Redirect our ambitions towards humility and selflessness. Teach us to find fulfillment in serving others, knowing that the greatest in Your Kingdom are those who serve with love and compassion.

Grant us the strength to embrace the cost of true discipleship, which involves self-denial and a willingness to endure suffering for the sake of others. May we trust in Your perfect plan and timing, leading our lives with humility and compassion.

Help us to put the needs of others before our own, rather than striving for our own ambitions. Fill our hearts with Your love, so that we may reflect Your grace and mercy to those around us.

In Your holy name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

VI: Ministry in Judea and Jerusalem

THE REQUEST OF JAMES AND JOHN

Matthew 20:20-28

Gospel Acclamation

I chose you from the world, to go and bear fruit that will last, says the Lord. 

Background

Matthew 20:20-28 is a passage that highlights the concept of servant leadership and the true nature of greatness in the Kingdom of God. Here’s a brief background and key lessons from this passage:

Context: This passage occurs as Jesus is making His way to Jerusalem, where He will eventually be crucified. It follows the parable of the workers in the vineyard, which emphasizes God’s grace and the reversal of human expectations about reward and status.

Request by the Mother of James and John: The mother of James and John (the sons of Zebedee) approaches Jesus with a request for her sons to sit at His right and left in His kingdom. This request reflects a misunderstanding of the nature of Jesus’ kingdom, thinking it would be a political or earthly reign.

Jesus’ Response: Jesus asks James and John if they can drink the cup He is about to drink, referring to His impending suffering and death. They confidently say they can, but Jesus tells them that the positions they seek are not His to grant; they are prepared by the Father.

Key Lessons

Servant Leadership: Jesus contrasts the worldly view of leadership, where rulers lord over others, with the Kingdom view, where greatness is found in serving others. He states, "whoever wishes to be great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be your slave".

Example of Jesus: Jesus Himself is the ultimate example of this servant leadership. He came “not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28). This underscores the sacrificial nature of true leadership and greatness in God’s eyes.

Humility and Selflessness: The passage challenges believers to examine their motives and ambitions, encouraging a shift from self-centered desires to a focus on serving others and following Jesus’ example of humility and selflessness.

Learning Lessons:

Matthew 20:20-28 offers profound lessons that can deeply impact our spiritual journey. 

1. True Greatness in Service. Servant Leadership: Jesus teaches that true greatness comes from serving others, not from seeking power or status. This is a call to lead with humility and compassion, putting the needs of others before our own. Example of Jesus: Jesus Himself exemplifies this by stating that He came “not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28). His life and sacrifice are the ultimate models of servant leadership.

2. Humility and Selflessness. Humility: The request by the mother of James and John reflects a common human desire for recognition and honor. Jesus redirects this ambition towards humility and selflessness, teaching that the greatest in the Kingdom of God are those who serve others. Selflessness: By asking if James and John can drink the cup He is about to drink, Jesus highlights the cost of true discipleship. It involves self-denial and a willingness to endure suffering for the sake of others.

3. God’s Sovereignty. Divine Appointment: Jesus emphasizes that positions of honor in His Kingdom are determined by God the Father. This reminds us to trust in God’s plan and timing, rather than striving for our own ambitions.

4. Community and Unity. Unity Among Believers: The reaction of the other disciples to the request of James and John shows the potential for division and jealousy. Jesus’ teaching on servant leadership promotes unity and mutual respect within the community of believers.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

July 25, 2024, 6:07 AM

Selfless Service

"You call me ‘teacher’ and ‘master,’ 

and rightly so, for indeed I am.

If I, therefore, the master and teacher, 

have washed your feet, 

you ought to wash one another’s feet. 

I have given you a model to follow, 

so that as I have done for you, 

you should also do.” 

(John 13:13-15) 

True leaders are those who demonstrates selfless service. Jesus sets His own self as example for you to follow. His leadership as your Master and Teacher is characterized by humility and service, rather than power and control. Like Jesus, we should love unconditionally even when faced with adversity and be willing to serve others in love and humility, regardless of our position or status.

In quiet deeds, in hands that give, 

A life of love, a way to live. 

No thought of gain, no search for fame, 

Just kindness shining like a flame.

To lift the weary, ease the load, 

To walk with others down their road. 

A heart that serves, both true and free, 

A gentle force, a sacred plea.

Not for the glory, not for show, 

But for the love that seeds must sow. 

For in the smallest act of grace, 

We find the world's most sacred place.

Lord Jesus, 

You came not to be served, but to serve, pouring out your love with every word and deed. Teach me to follow in your footsteps, to offer my hands for the work of kindness, my heart for the weary, and my spirit in humble devotion. 

May I serve not for recognition, but for the joy of giving. Let me be a light to those in darkness, a refuge to those in need, and a vessel of your endless mercy. Strengthen me when the path is difficult, renew me when my strength fades, and remind me that in serving others, I am serving you for all that I have, I surrender to your will. Use me as your instrument of grace and love, now and forever. 

Amen.

Pericope:

III: The Book of Glory

THE WASHING OF THE DISCIPLES' FEET

John 13:1-20

Gospel Acclamation

I give you a new commandment, says the Lord: love one another as I have loved you.

Gospel | John 13:1-15 (or Luke 4:16-21)

1 Before the feast of Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to pass from this world to the Father. He loved his own in the world and he loved them to the end. 2 The devil had already induced Judas, son of Simon the Iscariot, to hand him over. So, during supper, 3 fully aware that the Father had put everything into his power and that he had come from God and was returning to God, 4 he rose from supper and took off his outer garments. He took a towel and tied it around his waist. 5 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and dry them with the towel around his waist. 6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Master, are you going to wash my feet?” 7 Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing, you do not understand now, but you will understand later.” 8 Peter said to him, “You will never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “Unless I wash you, you will have no inheritance with me.” 9 Simon Peter said to him, “Master, then not only my feet, but my hands and head as well.” 10 Jesus said to him, “Whoever has bathed has no need except to have his feet washed, for he is clean all over; so you are clean, but not all.” 11 For he knew who would betray him; for this reason, he said, “Not all of you are clean.” 12 So when he had washed their feet and put his garments back on and reclined at table again, he said to them, “Do you realize what I have done for you? 13 You call me ‘teacher’ and ‘master,’ and rightly so, for indeed I am. 14 If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do.”

Background:

John 13:1-15 is part of the Gospel of John, written by the Apostle John. This passage is significant as it introduces the Last Supper and showcases Jesus’ humility, love, and knowledge of upcoming events.

The context of these verses is the Last Supper, which was a meal Jesus shared with His disciples before His arrest. Scholars disagree whether this meal was actually on the Passover, or if it was the Passover meal, but celebrated the day before.

In this passage, Jesus washes His disciples’ feet, an act of humility and service. This was a task typically performed by a servant, but Jesus did it to set an example for His disciples.

Jesus knew that His hour had come, referring to His impending crucifixion. Despite knowing that He was about to be betrayed by Judas Iscariot, Jesus showed love and served His disciples, teaching them a powerful lesson about humility and service.

This passage is a profound demonstration of Jesus’ love and humility, and it sets a precedent for Christian service. It also underscores the importance of humility, love, and service in the Christian faith.

Learning Lessons:

Humility: Jesus, the Master and Teacher, washes the feet of His disciples, a task typically done by a servant. This act of humility is a powerful lesson for us to serve others, regardless of our position or status.

Service: Jesus’ act of washing His disciples’ feet is a demonstration of selfless service. It teaches us that we should be willing to serve others in love and humility.

Love: Despite knowing that He was about to be betrayed, Jesus showed love towards all His disciples. This teaches us to love unconditionally, even when faced with adversity.

Leadership: Jesus’ actions provide a model of leadership characterized by humility and service, rather than power and control. It teaches us that true leaders are those who serve.

Obedience: Jesus knew His hour had come and He was obedient to His Father’s will, even unto death. This teaches us the importance of obedience to God’s will in our lives.

Example: Jesus explicitly states that He has set an example for His disciples to follow. This teaches us that we should strive to follow Jesus’ example in our daily lives.

These lessons from John 13:1-15 guide us in our interactions with others and our relationship with God. They remind us of the importance of humility, service, love, leadership, obedience, and following Jesus’ example.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Last will be First

"But many that are first 

will be last, 

and the last 

will be first.” 

(Mark 10:31)

God’s Kingdom operates on principles of humility and service, rather than power and status. Jesus does not guarantee a life free from hardship or suffering. Following Jesus may involve giving up comfort, relationships, or material possessions. Sacrifices are often required in our journey of faith but our sacrifices for the Kingdom of God are not in vain. Those who sacrifice for His sake and the gospel will receive blessings in this life and eternal life in the age to come. 

In the realm where the Divine does reign,

Humility and service are the gain.

Not power, not status, not worldly acclaim,

But love and grace in His holy name.

No promise of life without pain or test,

In following Jesus, we give our best.

Comfort, possessions, ties that bind,

We may leave these all behind.

Sacrifices made, in faith, not in vain,

For the Kingdom of God, we bear the strain.

In the gospel's cause, we find our role,

His love inscribed on every soul.

Blessings abound in this life we're in,

And eternal life is the ultimate win.

For those who for His sake have strived,

In the age to come, they'll be revived.

Dear Lord Jesus,

In Your Kingdom, humility and service reign, not power, not status, not worldly gain. You've shown us that life may not be free from strife, but in following You, we find true life.

We understand that comfort, relationships, and possessions, may be given up in our faith's progressions. Sacrifices are often required in our journey of faith, help us remember, they're not in vain, but a wraith.

For the Kingdom of God, we willingly sacrifice, knowing that these offerings will suffice. Those who give for Your sake and the gospel's call,

Will receive blessings in this life and beyond all.

We trust in Your promise of eternal life to come, a reward for those who have faithfully run. Help us, Lord, to live by Your grace, and one day see You face to face.

In Your Holy Name, we pray,

Amen.

Pericope:

IV: The Full Revelation of the Mystery

THE RICH MAN

Mark 10:17-31

Gospel | Mark 10:28-31

Gospel Acclamation

Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth; you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom. 

28 Peter began to say to Jesus, “We have given up everything and followed you.” 29 Jesus said, “Amen, I say to you, there is no one who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands for my sake and for the sake of the Gospel 30 who will not receive a hundred times more now in this present age: houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and eternal life in the age to come. 31 But many that are first will be last, and the last will be first.” 

Background:

The background of Mark 10:28-31 is rooted in the context of the apostle Mark’s gospel. Here’s a brief overview:

Author and Date: The Gospel of Mark is traditionally attributed to John Mark, a companion of Peter. The exact date of its composition is unknown.

Recipients: The Gospel of Mark was likely written for a Roman audience, as it often explains Jewish customs and Aramaic terms.

Purpose: Mark’s Gospel presents Jesus as the suffering servant of the Lord. It emphasizes Jesus’ actions more than His teaching, highlighting His miracles as clear indicators of His divine Sonship.

Now, focusing on the specific verses Mark 10:28-31, these verses discuss the rewards of discipleship. Peter began to say to Jesus, "Look, we have left everything and followed you." Jesus assures Peter and the other disciples that anyone who has left house, brothers, sisters, mother, father, children, or fields for His sake and for the sake of the good news, will receive a hundredfold now in this age. However, it will include some suffering. In the age to come, they will receive eternal life. Jesus concludes by saying, "But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first."

These verses underscore the sacrifices made for the sake of following Jesus and the promise of eternal rewards. It also emphasizes the reversal of worldly values in the Kingdom of God, where the last will be first.

Learning Lessons:

Mark 10:28-31 offers several important lessons for believers:

Sacrifice for the Gospel: Peter’s statement about leaving everything to follow Jesus highlights the sacrifices that are often required in the journey of faith. This teaches us that following Jesus may involve giving up comfort, relationships, or material possessions.

Rewards of Discipleship: Jesus assures His disciples that those who sacrifice for His sake and the gospel will receive blessings in this life and eternal life in the age to come. This underscores the concept of divine reward, reminding us that our sacrifices for the Kingdom of God are not in vain.

Suffering in this Life: Jesus mentions that the rewards in this life will come with persecutions. This is a sobering reminder that following Jesus does not guarantee a life free from hardship or suffering.

The Last Will Be First: Jesus’ statement that “many who are first will be last, and the last will be first” challenges worldly values and social hierarchies. It teaches us that God’s Kingdom operates on principles of humility and service, rather than power and status.

These lessons encourage us to be willing to make sacrifices for our faith, to trust in God’s promise of eternal rewards, to be prepared for suffering, and to embrace humility and service. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

May 28, 2024, 9:27 AM

Servant of All

“If anyone wishes 

to be first, 

he shall be 

the last of all 

and the servant of all.” 

(Mark 9:35)

God’s ways are not always our ways. The world often equates greatness with power, wealth, and status but in God’s kingdom, true greatness comes from being humble and serving others where the last will be first and the first will be last. 

Children are dependent, trusting, and humble. These are the qualities that Jesus wants us to have in our relationship with Him. We should face our problems with courage and faith in God, instead of trying to escape from them. We can cast our burdens on God, knowing that He will sustain us. 

Let us always listen to God's work, seek God’s wisdom and understanding and apply it to our lives rather than relying on our own.

In the realm where divine paths intertwine,

God's ways are not always aligned with thine.

The world may equate greatness with power and gold,

But in God's kingdom, a different story is told.

True greatness comes from humility, from service, from grace,

In God's kingdom, the last shall be first, the first shall find their place.

Children, dependent, trusting, and pure,

Hold the qualities that in us, Jesus wants to endure.

Facing problems with courage, with faith in the Divine,

Not seeking escape, but letting His light shine.

We cast our burdens on Him, in His strength, we trust,

Knowing He will sustain us, He is fair and just.

Let us listen to His word, seek His wisdom, His light,

Apply it to our lives, let it guide our flight.

Rely not on our understanding, but on His alone,

For it is through His love and wisdom, our path is shown.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We acknowledge that Your ways are not always our ways. In this world, greatness is often equated with power, wealth, and status, but in Your kingdom, true greatness comes from being humble and serving others. Help us to remember that in Your kingdom, the last will be first and the first will be last.

We strive to have the qualities of children who are dependent, trusting, and humble. These are the qualities that You want us to have in our relationship with You. Help us to face our problems with courage and faith in You, instead of trying to escape from them. We cast our burdens on You, knowing that You will sustain us.

Let us always listen to Your word, seek Your wisdom and understanding. Help us to apply Your teachings to our lives rather than relying on our own understanding. Guide us, Lord, in all our ways and lead us into everlasting life.

In Your holy name, we pray, Amen.

Pericope:

IV: The Full Revelation of the Mystery

THE SECOND PREDICTION OF THE PASSION / 

THE GREATEST IN THE KINGDOM

Mark 9:30-32 / 33-37

Gospel | Mark 9:30-37

Gospel Acclamation

May I never boast except in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me and I to the world. 

30 Jesus and his disciples left from there and began a journey through Galilee, but he did not wish anyone to know about it. 31 He was teaching his disciples and telling them, “The Son of Man is to be handed over to men and they will kill him, and three days after his death the Son of Man will rise.” 32 But they did not understand the saying, and they were afraid to question him. 33 They came to Capernaum and, once inside the house, he began to ask them, “What were you arguing about on the way?” 34 But they remained silent. For they had been discussing among themselves on the way who was the greatest. 35 Then he sat down, called the Twelve, and said to them, “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.” 36 Taking a child he placed it in their midst, and putting his arms around it, he said to them, 37 “Whoever receives one child such as this in my name, receives me; and whoever receives me, receives not me but the one who sent me." 

Background:

The passage Mark 9:30-37 is part of the second major section of the Gospel of Mark (8:22-10:52). This section contains a threefold pattern that appears three times: Jesus predicts his passion and resurrection, the disciples don’t understand, and Jesus then gives the disciples further teachings.

In Mark 9:30-37, there are two distinct episodes. The first is Jesus predicting his death and resurrection for the second time (the first was in Mark 8:31-33)2. The disciples, however, do not understand what he is talking about and are afraid to ask him.

The second episode reveals the disciples’ ignorance. They had been arguing about who among them was the greatest. This argument, juxtaposed with Jesus’ words about his coming suffering, is a display of irony and contributes to the continued depiction of the disciples and Jesus.

This passage furthers the revelation of Jesus’ identity, using the title “Son of Man” (Daniel 7:13). It’s important to remember that this entire section in Mark’s gospel is framed at the beginning and end by accounts of blind people who are given sight (8:22-26, 10:46-52). This stark image of going from blindness to sight is a big literary clue. As the blind man is given sight, however gradually, so the disciples, who are blind to Jesus’ mission and identity, are given sight, albeit gradually.

In summary, Mark 9:30-37 is a crucial passage that highlights the disciples’ lack of understanding and Jesus’ patient teaching about his mission and the nature of true greatness in the kingdom of God. It serves as a reminder of the need for humility and service in the Christian life.

Learning Lessons:

Mark 9:30-37 provides several important lessons for us:

Humility: Jesus teaches that true greatness comes from being humble and serving others. This is a counter-cultural message, as the world often equates greatness with power, wealth, and status. But in God’s kingdom, the last will be first and the first will be last.

Understanding God’s Will: The disciples’ lack of understanding about Jesus’ prediction of his death and resurrection shows that God’s ways are not always our ways. It reminds us to seek God’s wisdom and understanding rather than relying on our own.

Childlike Faith: When Jesus places a child in the midst of the disciples, He is teaching them (and us) about having a childlike faith. Children are dependent, trusting, and humble. These are the qualities that Jesus wants us to have in our relationship with Him.

Facing Difficulties with Courage and Faith: The passage also teaches us to face our problems with courage and faith in God, instead of trying to escape from them. We can cast our burdens on God, knowing that He will sustain us.

The Importance of Listening: The disciples’ argument about who was the greatest shows that they were not really listening to Jesus’ teachings. This serves as a reminder for us to truly listen to God’s word and apply it to our lives.

These lessons from Mark 9:30-37 can guide us in our daily lives and help us grow in our relationship with God.  (Copilot)

Published:

September 22, 2024, 7:57 AM

May 21,2024, 11:25 AM

Called to Serve

When we are called to serve, God equips us with the necessary authority and power to fulfill our mission. 

We are to travel light and focus on our mission without being burdened by material possessions. 

God will provide and meet our needs as we carry out His work. 

Let us be open to the Lord’s transformative work in our lives and the lives of others. 

Jesus summoned the Twelve with grace, 

And sent them out to every place. 

Two by two, their mission clear, 

To spread the Word, to conquer fear.

With authority, He gave them might, 

Over unclean spirits, they brought the light. 

No food, no sack, no coins to hold, 

But faith and trust, more precious than gold.

A walking stick, their only gear, 

In simple trust, they had no fear. 

For on this journey, God's love would guide, 

With every step, He walked beside.

Lord Jesus, 

You called and sent forth Your disciples, Grant us the courage to follow in their steps. Empower us with Your authority over all that is unclean and fill our hearts with unwavering faith. 

Help us to trust in Your provision, taking nothing but Your guidance for our journey. May we rely on Your strength and grace, as we spread Your love and message.

Guide us with Your wisdom and keep us humble and focused on Your mission. In Your name, we seek to serve, For Your glory, we strive to be faithful.

Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Mystery of Jesus

THE MISSION OF THE TWELVE

Mark 6:7-13

Gospel Acclamation

The Kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the Gospel.

Gospel | Mark 6:7-13

7 Jesus summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over unclean spirits. 8 He instructed them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick—no food, no sack, no money in their belts. 9 They were, however, to wear sandals but not a second tunic. 10 He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave from there. 11 Whatever place does not welcome you or listen to you, leave there and shake the dust off your feet in testimony against them.” 12 So they went off and preached repentance. 13 The Twelve drove out many demons, and they anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.

Reflection Source:

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