True Greatness in Humility and Service

09-22-2024Weekly ReflectionFr. Augustine Acheme, VC

This Sunday’s readings call us to reflect on the true meaning of greatness in the eyes of God. Through the wisdom of Scripture, we are invited to move away from selfish ambition and towards a life of humility, service, and peace.

The first reading from the Book of Wisdom reveals the hostility that the righteous often face from the wicked. The just one is persecuted because his life stands in stark contrast to the ways of the world. The wicked say, “Let us beset the just one because he is obnoxious to us” (Wis 2:12). This passage reflects the reality that those who strive to live according to God’s commandments may often find themselves opposed by those who reject divine wisdom. The reading challenges us to consider how we respond to injustice and persecution, reminding us that God is ultimately our defender.

The responsorial psalm echoes this theme of trust in God’s protection: “The Lord upholds my life” (Ps 54:6b). The psalmist expresses confidence in God’s saving power, even in the face of danger and opposition. This assurance allows us to stand firm in our faith, knowing that God hears our prayers and sustains us through all trials.

In the second reading, James addresses the destructive nature of jealousy and selfish ambition, which lead to disorder and conflict. He contrasts this with “the wisdom from above” which is “pure, then peaceable, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits” (Jas 3:17). James calls us to cultivate a life marked by peace and righteousness, rather than being driven by worldly desires. This reading reminds us that true wisdom and greatness come from living in harmony with God’s will, seeking peace, and bearing good fruit in our actions.

The Gospel brings this message to its fullest expression in the teachings of Jesus. As He and His disciples journey through Galilee, Jesus tells them of His impending passion and resurrection. However, the disciples, preoccupied with their own concerns, argue about who among them is the greatest. Jesus responds by turning their understanding of greatness upside down: “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all” (Mk 9:35). To illustrate His point, He takes a child - symbolizing the lowly and dependent - and places the child in their midst, saying that whoever welcomes such a one in His name welcomes Him and the One who sent Him.

These readings challenge us to reevaluate our notions of greatness. In a world that often values power, status, and self-promo on, Jesus calls us to embrace humility and service. True greatness, according to Jesus, is found not in elevating ourselves above others but in lowering ourselves to serve others with love and compassion.

This week, let us reflect on how we can live out this call to humility and service. Are there areas in our lives where we seek recognition or hold onto selfish ambition? How can we instead follow Jesus’ example of self-giving love, placing the needs of others before our own? By embracing this path of humble service, we align ourselves with the wisdom of God and participate in the true greatness of His kingdom.

Let us seek to serve others with the heart of a child, welcoming all in the name of Christ, and trusting that in doing so, we receive not only Him but also the One who sent Him. Amen.

Fr. Augustine Acheme, VC