Who's the Greatest?

From St. Mary's in Hot Springs, AK

Were you listening at Mass this morning? The disciples were arguing along the road about who was the greatest. They still had the idea that Jesus would be a worldly Messiah defeating the Romans and setting up His kingdom on earth. (Even after Jesus told them He had to suffer and die! They were slow learners.) The apostles were Jesus' inner circle. They saw themselves as his ministers and cabinet heads (sitting on his right and left). So they no doubt were arguing about who was going to be the chief of staff or the prime minister.

Of course Jesus knew exactly what the apostles were talking about. Don't you think He asked them what they were discussing on the road to make them feel embarrassed? They clearly were, since none of them would answer His question. And what did He do? Brought a little child and put him in their midst. "Those who wish to become great among you must become like this little child," He said.

What is a child? Little and not much in the world's eyes. Think of the little ones in our own culture. The littlest are nothing but doll objects -- to be trashed if unwanted and sought at all costs, even through immoral means, if wanted. Sad.

But, Jesus said, it can't be that way among you. The greatest must be servant to the rest. So...a great question for tonight's examination of conscience? How have I served others today? Do I really want to serve? Or do I long to be served? Do I want to be little in the world's eyes? Or do I want to receive honors?

Fr. John Hardon often said only little, humble people get into heaven. He also said one only gains humility by suffering humiliation. Are you ready for that? Are you willing to pray for that? Gosh...am I? Have you ever prayed the Litany of Humility?

Jesus, meek and humble of heart, make my heart like unto Thine.