SERVE THE LORD
Ecclesiasticus 2:1-11; Psalm 36; Mark 9:30-37
According to the first reading, if we want to serve the Lord, we must be prepared for hardship because doing so is not always accepted by society. In the old testament, fervent worshipers were hated. The society is not less hostile in our days.
Serving God entails carrying out His will, which involves following His instructions. Not only do we need to believe that there is a God, but we also need to follow His instructions. Jesus declared in John 10:27, “My sheep hear my voice. I know them and they follow me.”
To serve the Lord also entails a fundamental transformation of our life, which puts others under pressure to do the same. People who are unwilling to alter their behaviour are frequently antagonistic toward the truth and faith.
Lastly, to serve the Lord entials servanthood. We see Jesus warning the Disciples in view of his future death and resurrection in the Gospel text. He continues by telling them that in order to demonstrate their genuine faith and deeds and to welcome others in the name of Christ, those who seek to serve him must make themselves the servants of others.
LET US PRAY
Almighty God, to whom this world with all its goodness and beauty belongs, give us grace joyfully to begin this day in your name and to fill it with an active love for you and our neighbour. Amen.
