In today’s Gospel, we hear Jesus say something that startled his early disciples and can startle us: “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.” For Jesus, being first or being great does not matter. He has a different perspective. He sees that people who think that they are great enjoy it because of the prestige and feeling of importance they receive from others. He sees this as being self-serving and misses the point of why we were created. The reading from St. James helps us understand Jesus’ mind on this topic of greatness when he says that “where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and foul practice.” Jesus recognizes this tendency and does not want his followers to fall into the same trap, one that still exists today.
This Sunday is our annual Ministry Fair. Stop over at San Damiano Hall and check out the displays of the various ministries here at St. Francis. If you are looking for a way to become more involved in the church, you might find something that interests you and gives you the opportunity to put your gifts to good use! The Fair will be held after the 11:00, 12:30 5:00 and 6:15 Masses.
-Fr. Andrew Reitz, O.F.M.