Our readings today warn us against the dangers of jealousy and selfish ambition. The first one shows that people with ambitions filled with avarice will work to tear down good and just people because they do not like how they compare. They will taunt and vilify those gentle people to satisfy their own fears and misgivings. Meanwhile, the second reading warns that it is from selfish desires that wars and conflict are bred. People will tear down the peace of others to justify the lack of peace that they have in their own lives.
Jesus brings all of this together in the Gospel. His disciples don't know what to make of His teachings, especially His predictions about His death. Fearing to look foolish if they question Him, they instead argue about who among them is the greatest. Jesus sidelines the argument by saying that the greatest among them must be the servant to all.
Too often do I look for my own comfort without considering the comfort of others. I often envy the attention that others receive, and dream of receiving praise and laurels for my achievements. I should not expect rewards for doing what is right. Rather, I should try to do what is right despite the hardships that it might cause simply because it is the right thing to do. This is a challenge that will require a great deal more effort on my part.
Jesus brings all of this together in the Gospel. His disciples don't know what to make of His teachings, especially His predictions about His death. Fearing to look foolish if they question Him, they instead argue about who among them is the greatest. Jesus sidelines the argument by saying that the greatest among them must be the servant to all.
Too often do I look for my own comfort without considering the comfort of others. I often envy the attention that others receive, and dream of receiving praise and laurels for my achievements. I should not expect rewards for doing what is right. Rather, I should try to do what is right despite the hardships that it might cause simply because it is the right thing to do. This is a challenge that will require a great deal more effort on my part.
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