The 29th Sunday readings teach us about true greatness in service; about serving others with humility; about hope and trust in Jesus’s help; about embracing suffering as a way to love others; and about true leadership. These readings guide us on our journey of faith, to follow Jesus.
The First Reading, Isaiah 53:10-11, is about a servant who suffers to save others. This refers to Jesus, who willingly suffered and died and rose again to save us from our sins. By taking on the pain and the suffering, Jesus shows us how deeply he cares and loves us. Following his example of selfless love, we too must show this love to others.
The Responsorial Psalm, from Psalm 33, is a prayer of praise and hope for God’s mercy.
The Second Reading, Hebrews 4:14-16,is aboutJesus, who became human, who is the high priest who understands our struggles and has compassion. We can approach him for grace and mercy in times of need.
In the Gospel Reading, Mark 10:35-45,James and John, not fully understanding, asked Jesus to sit in places of honor in his glory. Jesus says that the honor they seek is not his to give, and so he teaches them that those who wish to be great must be the servant of all; that true greatness comes from serving others, not seeking one’s own glory. This is humility. The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve. We can follow his example of true leadership by helping others through love, by putting their needs first before our own.
Lord Jesus, in my time of need,
Trusting in your mercy and understanding,
To find strength and grace,
Help me to serve others with humility.
Help me be a true leader, a servant to all,
Putting their needs first, before my own,
Not seeking honor for myself.
All to draw closer to you in prayer.
To always follow your example, to love others.
Amen.
Rosella Kinoshameg DOS