Num.12.1-8,

Psalm. 123,

1 Corinthians.4.6-16,

Mark.10.35-45

  Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, as we gather together on this fourth Sunday of Lent, we are reminded of the profound journey of self-reflection and spiritual growth that this season offers us. Today, we delve into the theme of true greatness, exploring how it is revealed not in positions of power or authority, but in acts of humble service and self-sacrifice.In a world obsessed with notions of success and status, the teachings of Jesus Christ stand in stark contrast. He challenges us to redefine greatness according to the values of the Kingdom of God. As we journey through the Scriptures assigned for today, may we open our hearts to receive God’s word and be transformed by its truth.

1. Teaching of Jesus (Mark 10:35-45)

The passage from the Gospel of Mark presents us with a poignant scene where James and John, two of Jesus’ disciples, approach him with a request for positions of honor and authority in his kingdom. Their ambition reveals a common misconception about greatness – one that equates it with power, prestige, and recognition. However, Jesus responds by teaching them a profound lesson about true greatness.He says, “Whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all” (Mark 10:43-44). In this simple yet profound statement, Jesus overturns the world’s understanding of greatness. He reveals that true greatness is found not in seeking positions of prominence, but in serving others with humility and selflessness.

2. Moses’ Example (12.1-8)

To illustrate this point further, let us turn to the Old Testament reading from the book of Numbers. In this passage, we encounter the story of Moses, who is described as “very humble, more so than anyone else on the face of the earth” (Numbers 12:3). Despite being chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of bondage in Egypt, Moses did not seek greatness for its own sake. Instead, he embraced his role with humility and obedience, always putting the needs of the people before his own.Similarly, the psalmist echoes this sentiment in Psalm 123, declaring, “Our eyes look to the Lord our God, until he has mercy upon us” (Psalm 123:2). True greatness is found in fixing our gaze upon God, acknowledging our dependence on him, and allowing his mercy to transform our lives.

3. Paul’s Call (1 Cor.4.6-16)

In the epistle reading from 1 Corinthians, the apostle Paul urges believers to imitate him as he imitates Christ. He emphasizes the importance of humility and self-sacrifice in the life of a follower of Jesus. Paul and his fellow apostles endured great hardships and persecution for the sake of the gospel, yet they counted it all joy for the opportunity to serve their Lord and Saviour. Consider the example of Mother Teresa, a modern-day saint who embodied the principles of humble service and self-sacrifice. Despite her frailty and limited resources, she dedicated her life to serving the poorest of the poor in the slums of Calcutta. Her ministry of love and compassion touched the lives of countless individuals, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.Mother Teresa once said, “I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together we can do great things.” Her words remind us that true greatness is not measured by individual achievements or accolades, but by our willingness to come together in service to others.As we reflect on the teachings of Jesus Christ and the examples of humility and self-sacrifice found in Scripture and in the lives of the saints, let us strive to emulate their example in our own lives. True greatness is not found in the pursuit of power or prestige, but in humble service and selfless love.

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the example of your Son, Jesus Christ, who showed us the true meaning of greatness through his life of humble service and self-sacrifice. Grant us the grace to follow in his footsteps, serving others with love and compassion, and seeking not our own glory, but the glory of your kingdom. Strengthen us by your Spirit, that we may be faithful witnesses to your gospel in the world. We pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Amen.