”Whether as part of a team effort or as an individual effort, we learn while still young the value of practice and preparation and the thrill of victory. On a stage or playing field, a snowy mountain slope, swimming pool or court, what we do and learn, how we suffer or succeed can teach us something about ourselves.
The Word of God in Sacred Scripture calls to us constantly to learn more deeply and more fully about God and about the world all around us precisely so that we can learn everything about ourselves. What we learn here gives value to or offers the measure of whatever else we are taught as being worthy of who we are, or not.
In today’s Gospel reading, the ten disciples who hear James and John petitioning Jesus for preferential treatment respond in kind. They become indignant. Two are jockeying for the top spots and ten are indignant because whatever might be given will then not be available to be given to them. Jesus responds by drawing them more deeply into the Mystery of who he is, and the mystery of who we are. Every measure of his greatness, even his very divinity, is invested in his service, sacrifice, and ultimately his suffering and death 3 for us! Greatness by the world’s measure can draw people apart 3 onto the red carpets they walk, into the residential fortresses where they live, into modes of transportation that far exceed their need or purpose so that all who see them will be in awe and, perhaps, feel a measure of envy. Such envy can cause a question about the value of a life that doesn’t have these things, or at least the promise of getting them one day.
Jesus is clear that our natural desire for greatness must draw us together, not apart. True strength is not for domination but for service. We can be every measure of great, IF we will be great is his sight and at his side!