Endurance in Hope

09-23-2018Weekly ReflectionFather Prince Raja

As this weekend we are in the first kickoff of our Diocesan Annual Appeal (DAA), let me remind you about the theme for this year "Endurance in Hope". Let us share our time, talent and treasure generously towards this year Appeal.

When St. Bernard was asked what the four cardinal virtues were, he replied: "Humility, humility, humility and humility." In today's gospel, the disciples of Jesus on their way to Capernaum, they discussed among themselves who is the greatest. The disciples were still clueless about Jesus and His mission. Even as he predicts for the second time the betrayal and death await Him in Jerusalem, they continued to dream of sharing His glory when He declares Himself as the Messiah in the holy city.

The early Christian hymn in the letter to the Philippians talks about how Jesus emptied himself and became obedient to death, even death on a cross. In response God exalted him and raised him above all creation. This hymn describes the dynamic that is at the heart of life in the trinity: each person of God is constantly pouring out the divine self in love and service to the other persons. Each person is welcoming the other and makes room for the other in the outpouring of love. He goes on to instruct his disciples on the true meaning of discipleship. He tells them that if anyone wants to be first he must be the last and must be the servant of all. In the first reading from the Book of Wisdom we have the picture of the wicked persons plotting against the just. They do not recognize the blessings that come with serving God. In the second reading St. James reminds us that wisdom is a gift of God. He reminds the Christian community of the harm caused by jealousy and selfish ambition.

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