HOMILY: Twenty Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time (B)
Mark 9:30-37
22 September 2024
Fr. Ricky Cañet Montañez
I am so amazed at how talented kids are these days! On TV the voice kids showcase incredible talent that can easily put adults to shame. I also see videos online of kids who dance like professionals but can barely speak a complete sentence. Moreover, there are those who speak so well that they have their own vlogs! It’s not unheard of that kids even become the breadwinners of the family because of their talent. Yet, our laws still protect them because they are young, impressionable and inexperienced. They are still dependent on their parents and authority figures to care for them and make big decisions for them.
In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus highlights an aspect of children that we still observe in little ones today, regardless of their exceptional talents — smallness and dependence on others. This is the standard for those considered as the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. In the story we heard, the disciples were bickering over who among them was the greatest, then Jesus called in a child and says, “Whoever receives one child such as this in my name, receives me; and whoever receives me, receives not me but the One who sent me.” (Mark 9:37) This must have perplexed the disciples. Imagine the irony of the weakest holding the greatest position over all?
Instead of reprimanding His friends, as Jesus did with Peter in last Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus seizes the opportunity to teach them what true greatness is about. Remember that Jesus was speaking to them of His impending suffering, death and resurrection — a very important and serious matter. And yet His friends were concerned with thoughts of becoming admired, revered, and idolised, themselves. The focus was no longer on Jesus and the mission but themselves. Even more alarming was that they were not just casually talking about it but arguing! The fact that they were getting on each other’s nerves means, they were taking this more seriously than the news Jesus was delivering to them about the salvation of humanity! They lost sight of what was essential.
Many of us, even those who profess to be Christians, have difficulties accepting Christ’s view of greatness. For us, greatness necessarily means being first, being on top, being in control or having power over others — getting people to do what we want them to do. It is no surprise then that there are some of us who want to be in positions of authority at all costs. They would even dare cheat their way into securing these posts because of the perceived accompanying privileges. The essence of authority which is first and foremost bestowed for the purpose of service is easily forgotten and taken for granted. Once I watched Family Feud and the question asked was … “What comes to mind when you hear the word ‘politicians’?” Guess what the top answer was… ‘Corrupt’… Somebody answered ‘Public Service’ and he got zero (0). It is indeed disheartening when those who take the reins of the community or a country get lost in their power and influence; when they forget the value and essence of humble public service in their leadership. This selfishness results to all kinds of corrupt practices and neglect of the common good.
Children are not like this. They have an innate sense of curiosity and eagerness to learn. They do not claim to know everything. They need a teacher. Even if they can earn millions, they still need adults to prepare their food, their clothing, and their needs. They are aware of their dependence on others especially for their most basic needs. They have simple needs and simple joys. In adulthood, this translates into the virtue of humility — a characteristic most valued in Heaven. Mother Mary is venerated in heaven and earth because of her profound humility. It is what allows her to be fully dependent on God and obedient to His will — constantly allowing herself to be guided, even when she does not understand His plans. Even now, Mama Mary defies norms and goes out of her way to be in service of her Son and His friends.
The Second Reading (James 3:16 – 4:3) from St. James presents further how one who is humble, lives a life of service and enjoys peace. This is termed as the way of the wise! Motivated by wisdom from above, we are sure to generate harmony and goodwill. This is sure to bear a lot of good fruits in the community. On the other hand, St. James calls foolish those who obsess over jealousy and selfish ambition. He says this is what sparks wars, which we can observe in our world situation today — whether on a small scale in our local elections or on a grand scale among nations in armed conflict. Nothing good can truly come of it. Nobody truly wins.
This Sunday we are reminded that true greatness is being the servant of all. Jesus says, “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.” (Mark 9:35) Through God’s grace, may we learn to recognise our dependence on God. May we pursue a life of humility and service keeping in mind that to sincerely work for the well-being of those in need, is to pursue greatness in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Art Work by Emil Nolde
Sunday Gospel Reflections 