Homily: Second Wednesday of Lent
Second Wednesday of Lent (Mt. 20:17-28) “Be Careful What You Ask For”
A woman is mentioned several times in the Gospels, Mary the wife of Clopas. She is also said to be the mother of James. Finally, she is said to be the sister of Mary, mother of the Lord. If all this is true, then James and John would have been cousins of the Lord. So, it was Jesus’ aunt who approached Jesus and his cousins that thought they should have special consideration in the movement Jesus was leading.
When we read stories of the early church, we have a sense that Jesus’ extended family rejected his ministry at first, but later several of them became very prominent. In the eyes of others, relatives of Jesus were probably looked upon with respect.
We can be critical of the Apostles who let ambition drive wedges between them. This is not the only time we hear of them competing with one another as they sought Jesus’ attention. Who can forget that at the Last Supper Jesus was still teaching his disciples about being servant leaders when he washed their feet?
The struggle with this type of attitude still is a problem today. Pope Francis has been very critical of careerism among the clergy. He often speaks out about clericalism. This can be a problem in any parish if people who hold positions of responsibility Lord it over others.
We might look at this whole episode in another way, however. James and John had just heard Jesus speak about the doctrine of the cross. They could have decided it was too dangerous to be connected to Jesus, but they were firmly committed. They were ready to put their life on the line for the case of Christ. When this is the case, stepping forward to take up a leadership role is an admirable thing.
As we see people laying their life on the line in Ukraine and in Russia to stand up for basic human rights and for freedom, we can remember the early leaders of the church who let their heart lead them as they fulfilled their Baptismal commitment.
Reflection questions:
- Am I impressed when I see people willing to give up everything for a cause? Where have I witnessed that?
- Have I ever wanted a leadership role? Why did I want it?
Dear Parishioners,
Our parish listening campaign has been completed. I would like to thank those who have participated, those that were listeners and those who were interviewed. The listening team will be meeting with the parish council to share what they heard from our parishioners at next month’s parish council meeting. We will probably then give a written report to the parish after that.
One thing that we learned is that people have missed being at Mass, but they are wary of returning too quickly. There are people who still feel isolated. I heard once again in the media that there are many people who are depressed because of the lack of social interaction the last two years. I encourage everyone to call someone you have not seen in church for a while. This is a way of being a disciple of the Lord and an instrument of his consolation.
May Our Lady be with the People of Ukraine this day.
Fr. Mark