"WILL YOU LET ME BE YOUR
SERVANT"
The innocence of the child radiated humility and simplicity. Those who
serve need such virtues.
The disciples of
Jesus Christ in today's Gospel, had been arguing about who was the most
important. They were caught up in the "jealousy and selfish ambition"
that St. James decries (3:16.) So Jesus places a child in their midst. The
child was not for an icon of cuteness or disarming curiosity. Rather, the
innocence of the child radiated humility and simplicity. Those who serve need
such virtues.
Jesus came to serve
and not be served. He told His disciples "If anyone wishes to be first, he
shall be the last of all and the servant of all." "Will you let me be
your servant. Let me be as Christ to you." The familiar hymn was written
by Richard Gillard. We have sung this hymn at funerals, weddings, Holy Thursday
and Sunday Mass, these lyrics touch our hearts in their eloquent way to serve
the needs of others. Pope Francis, who serves the poor in his every word and
deed, calls us to share in this journey as a people and of a faith community.
How can I serve the needs of those around me?
Maybe this will
help: Ten Characteristics of Servant-Leadership created by Larry C. Spears:
Listening Conceptualization
Empathy Foresight
Healing Stewardship
Awareness Commitment
to the Growth of People
Persuasion Building
Community
Let me be your
servant!