Homily: The True Nature of
Greatness (Mark 10: 35-45)
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Today’s Gospel presents us with a striking
interaction between Jesus and His disciples.
James and John, seeking positions of honor in the
Kingdom, approached Jesus with a bold request:
“Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one
at your left, in your glory.”
Their desire for status reflects a common human
aspiration, one we often see in our own lives.
Jesus responds with a gentle yet firm reminder:
“You do not know what you are asking.”
He asks them if they can drink the cup He will
drink, highlighting the suffering that comes with true discipleship.
Jesus then turns the idea of greatness on its
head, teaching that “whoever wishes to be great among you must be your
servant.”
This message challenges us to examine our own
understanding of greatness.
Often, in our world, greatness is equated with
power, prestige, or recognition.
We admire those who climb the ranks, who achieve
accolades, or who stand at the forefront of influence.
But Jesus invites us to reconsider this notion,
pointing us toward a different path—one marked by humility and service.
Let me share a story that beautifully illustrates
this teaching.
In a quaint little village, there lived an
elderly woman named Maria.
Known for her kindness, Maria dedicated her life
to helping others.
She cooked meals for the sick, tended to the
children, and comforted those in sorrow.
Though she was not wealthy, her heart overflowed
with love.
One winter, a fierce snowstorm hit the village.
Roads were blocked, and many families found
themselves trapped at home without enough food.
While others sheltered in their homes, fearful of
the storm, Maria felt a deep concern for her neighbors.
Instead of waiting for help, she bundled up and
ventured out into the blizzard, determined to bring warmth and sustenance to
those in need.
As she trudged through the snow, her heart was
filled with purpose.
She visited the home of a single mother with
three young children.
Upon entering, she found them shivering and
hungry.
Without hesitation, Maria shared her own limited
supplies, providing them not only with warm meals but also with the comfort of
her presence.
Days later, when the storm had passed, the
villagers emerged to find that Maria had been their silent guardian.
They discovered she had visited multiple homes,
bringing food and warmth to those who needed it most.
When they gathered to express their gratitude, it
was clear:
Maria was not seeking
recognition or reward;
she had simply acted out of love
and compassion.
In that moment, the villagers recognized that
true greatness isn’t found in titles or accolades.
It lies in selfless acts of service, just as
Jesus taught us.
Maria, with her humble heart, became a powerful
example of what it means to live the Gospel.
Jesus’ own life epitomized this teaching.
He, the Son of God, chose to serve rather than be
served.
He washed the feet of His disciples, healed the
sick, and ultimately laid down His life for us.
This radical love and humility redefine
greatness.
As we reflect on our own lives, let’s ask
ourselves:
Are we, like James and John,
caught up in the pursuit of status?
Are we striving for recognition
in our families, workplaces, or communities?
Or can we embrace the call to
serve, to lift others up, and to put their needs before our own?
The world often tells us that success
is about climbing higher, but Jesus shows us that true fulfillment
comes from bending lower, from extending a hand to those in need.
In our daily interactions, let’s look for
opportunities to serve—
whether it’s a kind word to a
struggling friend,
a meal shared with a neighbor,
or simply listening to someone
who feels alone.
In embracing a spirit of service, we not only
reflect the love of Christ but also discover the joy that comes from putting
others first.
Let us commit to following Jesus’ example,
recognizing that in serving others, we find our true purpose and identity as
His disciples.
May God bless us as we strive to embody this
message of love and humility in our lives.
Amen.