Spiritual Corner -- To Serve Like Christ

Jesus teaches us he has come not to be served but to serve. How are we going to put this truth into practice?

In today’s gospel reading, James and John asked Jesus to allow them to sit one at his right hand and the other at his left in his glory. Their request provoked a storm of anger from the other apostles. Jesus took this opportunity to teach them, “Those who are supposed to rule over the Gentiles lord it over them, but it shall not be so among you, whoever would be first among you must be servant of all. Why? For the son of man has also come not be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” His life was a service to others. He travelled throughout Israel and Judea serving the Jews and the Gentiles – healing the sick, the blind, the lame, raising the dead, forgiving the sins of those who believe in Him. He taught them to forget self and live for others.

But James and John were thinking of how to serve their own interest by following Jesus. That is why the other apostles were angry at their selfishness.

As Christians, we are asked to imitate the life of Jesus. The church is present in this world to serve the needs of mankind in this world through preaching, sacraments, and acts of charity especially to the poor, the marginalized, the refugees, the abandoned and the forgotten brothers and sisters. The church is a field hospital as Pope Francis said: to bring healing, reconciliation, hope to the wounded – the sinners.

As we prepare to imitate the Lord we should be ready to give a joyful service to God and others without expectation of any return. We can do this in our roles as parents, teachers, public servants, doctors, lawyers, etc.to those we minister to. At all times, we know Jesus is with us.

Let us serve others like Christ, with joy and mercy, with love and compassion, with patience and understanding, with a humble and listening heart.

Yours,
Deacon Thomas Kung