GOD’S WORD FOR THE DAY (based on Catholic Liturgical Readings)
DATE: 21ST FEBRUARY 2017
TUESDAY OF THE SEVENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
FIRST READING: Sirach 2:1-11
PSALM: Psalm 37:3-4, 18-19, 27-28, 39-40
GOSPEL: Mark 9:30-37
THEME: THE RACE FOR GREATNESS
There are different criteria for measuring greatness. Some measure greatness in terms of financial gain and commitment to achieving material things. For others, greatness is seen in physical strength. Some too measure greatness when the applause is big and the accolades are innumerable. Jesus, however, measures greatness by service and humility.
The apostles of Jesus had been discussing among themselves who was the greatest. Like children seeking to hide something from their parents, they kept silent when Jesus asked, “What were you discussing on the way?” He then said to them, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all” (Mk. 9:35). Making reference to a child, he added, “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me; and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me” (Mk. 9:37). Here, we see two imageries – servant (service) and child (littleness/humility).
In a world where almost everyone wants to feel important and many search frantically for “high heels” to wear so that they too can be noticed, the criteria of Jesus for greatness is certainly an affront to the secular mind. However, if service and humility is what makes a person great in the eyes of God, then there is a level playing field for all.
You have what it takes to become great right where you are. In humility, go down and begin to serve. God will sow the seed of greatness in you and you would tower above the clouds.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, take away that ugly pride in me and make me beautiful as I serve my brothers and sisters in humility. Amen
Andrews Obeng, svd
DIVINE WORD MISSIONARIES
BIBLICAL PASTORAL MINISTRY
(Ghana Province)
“May the darkness of sin and the night of unbelief vanish before the light of the Word and the Spirit of grace. And may the heart of Jesus live in the hearts of all people” (St. Arnold Janssen).