Scripture Reading

"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." ~Mark 10: 42-45

Reflection

In today’s Gospel, Jesus reveals to us the nature of hierarchy as intended by God to be one of love and service, unlike the world. We observe throughout history the destruction of peoples, nations and civilizations as a result of the pursuit for power, a power that takes, suppresses and oppresses manifesting themselves in war and violence. Human nature naturally revolts to this because we are not made for ourselves only, nor are we made for suppression or oppression but we are made with a desire for freedom.

Conversely, the hierarchy of God is one which gives, respects, and liberates. Jesus asks us to learn from Him as the model for authority.

Let us today pray for all those in places of authority, that they may be inspired to love and serve in order to foster true freedom for the world. .It is only in freedom that the human spirit can rise to its purpose and fulfillment.