By Pravin S, CSC –
Readings: Jer 18: 18-20; Mt 20: 17-28
The liturgy invites us to live a humble life by surrendering ourselves to God. Many of us feel that we have a lot of wealth and are more talented than others. As a result, we try to impose ourselves on the other person and become a block for his/her growth. When we humbly assist in their growth process, we will remain a benefactor. Humility avoids pride, self-centeredness, jealousy, anger etc. and allows us to grow in love for others.
In the first reading, we see Prophet Jeremiah who lived a humble life by surrendering himself to God. He is ready to go through painful moments by preparing himself to accept anything that God gives him- suffering or persecution. We are also invited to cultivate the virtue of humility to become his servants and to be with him as his children. In the gospel reading, we see how the disciples of Jesus were eager to uphold their positions in the mission of Christ.
Their selfishness and self-oriented behavior came first and not the attitude of serving the other. This gospel teaches us that when we focus on ourselves, we forget the others and begin to live an isolated life which leads us into meaninglessness and misery. When we give our preference to God we give importance to other people who live around us. We will have strong energy, grace and power to go through any amount of suffering for the sake of others. Jesus calls everyone to become his disciples by surrendering themselves into his hands and live a humble life.