Walking with Jesus: 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time

For Sunday, September 22, 2024

Wisdom 2:12, 17-20; James 3:16-4:3; Mark 9:30-37

Liturgically we are still in Ordinary Time, yet we are entering into new “seasons,” “periods” or “phases” during this “time” of the year. In the Northern Hemisphere the days are still warm but will soon become shorter, and coolness will be a common denominator. Elections are coming and people are waiting in anticipation/excitement, dread/hopelessness, indifference/hopefulness. In social media, sports and entertainment, we continue the themes of the Olympics: Who is the greatest? In modern parlance that's who is the G.O.A.T. — or Greatest Of All Time. Today’s readings have a slightly different complexion, with the disciples discussing “who is the greatest” among themselves. We too, often subconsciously or even consciously, compare ourselves to others who are “not as good as I am.”

The first two chapters of the Book of Wisdom establish a contrast between the righteous and the wicked. In this passage the ungodly verbally assault the righteous who have become a living reproach to them. They are upset because their “evil” is when they are not following Moses’ law. They are plotting to “kill” the righteous because they trust in God. Will this God of theirs really deliver them from their adversaries? The righteous one is described as gentle and patient and an innocent victim of the evildoers' resentment. So who will win this encounter? Will the righteous one give in and surrender to the persecution of the wicked? Will God in fact intervene on behalf of the just person? Wisdom revisits the Suffering Servant theme and the servant as being sent by God, affirming God’s care for the righteous.

Psalm 54 echoes the call for deliverance, pleading for God’s help in time of need: “O God … save me … defend my cause … hear my prayer, listen to the words of my mouth … the arrogant have risen against me … they do not keep God before them.” [Psalm 54:3-5] God is called upon to act as a judge. A condemnable person would never ask God to act as judge.

James contrasts two ways of living based on “Wisdom” traditions. One comes from ungodly sources — jealousy and selfish ambition creating disorder and foul practices. On the other hand, a life motivated by wisdom generates harmony and peace. Love so often manifests a continual peace which is a gift from God, bringing with it the riches of peace. This is the path that all believers are called to walk. It can easily pit people against each other. James tells us that envy lies at the root of conflict within the believing community, distorting prayer life and setting people against each other. This is so true today. Am I a source of love and kindness, or anger and hate?

All of this comes to a head in the Gospel where the disciples fail to grasp Jesus’ teaching and the nature of His mission. So Jesus again recounts the prediction of His own passion and death. When will His disciples come to realize that His mission is to show God’s love and reveal God’s promise of heaven to all who believe in Him? When will they believe in loving all people and bringing each of us closer to God? The disciples, however, want to know which one of them will be chosen to bring this all about. Jesus calls them aside to teach them the urgent part of their ministry: “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be last of all and the servant of all.” [Mark 9:35] (In this passage, “servant” is translated as “diaconos” — from which we get the word “deacon.”) Rather than seeking high rank, status or esteem, discipleship necessitates helping those in need. In the disciples' time, children are regarded in low status — labeled as insignificant and vulnerable. The disciples have much to learn. We have much to learn. I have much to learn. God help us all; teach us to be You to all.

So I reflect on:

• Who are the “little ones” whose value and dignity I might fail to see, especially when I’m busy competing in some other arena? Why am I oblivious to them? What am I hiding behind?
• Who are the G.O.A.T.s on my important list? Who are ones who give me insight about Christian service and openness? Can I see and learn of God’s love from any of them?

Sacred Space 2024 states:

“Jesus reminded His disciples of the direction of His prophetic life. Each time He mentioned suffering and death they did not hear His message or could not accept it. May we hear the truth of Your good news, where glory is attained through suffering. (Luke 24:26)

“The disciples seemed more concerned about themselves and their own glory. They were discussing who was the greatest among them. Lord, give us childlike hearts that can truly welcome You and help us to be welcoming of others, as Your children.”