REFLECTION FOR THE 25TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – SEPTEMBER 22, 2024

by Ann O’Connor, Notre Dame Associate

MARK 9:30-37

In this Gospel passage, Jesus teaches his disciples about true greatness. He tells them that whoever wants to be first must be the servant of all. He then places a child in their midst, showing them that welcoming the least among them is welcoming Him.

The Gospel challenges us to put others first. By serving and loving others selflessly, we follow His example and live out our faith. Instead of seeking power or status, Jesus calls us to serve others, especially those who are in need. This lesson on humility and service is fundamental to us, and to the charism of the Notre Dame Sisters – the call to be of service to the community. By serving others with humility, we follow the teaching of Jesus with a genuine care and love for others. Jesus shows us that real greatness is the act of serving others, especially those less fortunate.

Jesus’ example of welcoming a child teaches us about humility and trust. Humility is different from timidity or lack of self-esteem. A person who is generous with his or her time and talents can still be humble if they recognize that all that they have comes from God. We are called to have faith like children, trusting God completely and welcoming others with love. This is how we live out our faith.

Let us pray that we can be humble, to serve others with love and to become more like children in our trust of God. True greatness lies in serving others. As we reflect on this Gospel reading, what would be your answer be to “How can I serve others today and in the future?”

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