Eighth Wednesday of Ordinary Time

You know that those who are recognized as rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones make their authority over them felt. But it shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all. For the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.

The world tells us it is good to seek power over others, but that isn't what Jesus says. His Way is one of service and self-sacrifice. His Truth is that power in this world means nothing in the next. His Light is the only power that truly lasts because it is the Light of God's Eternal Love. God does not seek to lord it over us, but rather to serve as our Savior, Father, and Advocate. He sacrificed his Beloved Son as a ransom for many… for us. If we want a part of His Kingdom, then we must do the same. We must be the slaves of all, doing good to all whom we meet each day without hesitation or expectation of return.

Do we lord it over anyone? How can we become more faithful servants to God and others? What are we willing to endure and do to be of service to our Heavenly Father?

O Lord, we seek to serve you and all your children, now and forever.

Amen.