Growth in Christian Life Equals Self-Giving 

1st Reading: Is 53:10-11 | 2nd Reading: Heb 4:14-16 | Gospel: Mk 10:35-45 or 10:42-45 

What do we do best? Some of us might be math whizzes, others can send a golf ball exactly where we intend. How do we get there? Practice, natural talent, and a good coach or teacher. Following Jesus, though, is another matter entirely. As today’s readings remind us, we grow as Christians not by building ourselves up but by giving ourselves away. In Isaiah, we hear about the suffering servant who “did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.” That suffering servant is Jesus, who admonishes the Apostles as they jostle for position as his right-hand man. Ultimately, the greatest among them will be “a slave of all,” Jesus reminds them. His words challenge us to put as much energy and prayer into finding ways to better serve others as we do other areas of our lives. We can look to Jesus, Mary, St. Joseph, and all the saints as role models. 

Most of us can think of a friend who seems like a natural “giver.” He shovels the neighbor’s walk without being asked. She sends flowers or a meal during a difficult time. Serving others can take so many forms, from a simple hug or phone call to committed volunteering at your parish or a charity organization. In today’s readings, Jesus invites us to bear witness to his sacrifice through humble service. It may not come naturally for all of us all the time, but that’s where God’s grace and the Holy Spirit come in. We can ask for the strength, creativity, flexibility – whatever we may lack – to recognize the needs around us and respond. Before we know it, our generosity will overflow and encourage others as they, too, seek to grow in Christian service. 

ACTION: Watching the news or even scrolling your social-media feed can be overwhelming at times. Instead of tuning out, find a small way to help – through prayer, a donation to your parish, a Catholic organization, or a phone call or card to a friend going through a difficult time.