To Serve and to Give His Life

 “For the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many." (Mk. 10:45)
 
This verse from our gospel reading this morning has long stood out to me as a poignant one. 
 
In reflecting on this passage, I was struck by what transpired. 
 
Although Jesus was thinking and speaking about His upcoming torture and terrible death, He was able to address a situation with His apostles who were thinking about honors in the coming kingdom.
 
I don’t know about you, but when I’m faced with great suffering, I don’t think I tend to be very attentive to other people.   I am not eager to patiently go beyond myself and help them in such circumstances.
 
Here, though, Jesus is patient with His followers and even teaches them an invaluable lesson about selfless service.
 
In today’s gospel, we too are reminded that our lives are about serving others more than about what others can do for us. 
 
May we be touched by Jesus’ example of love and selflessness and strive, with His help, to put it into practice. 
 
May we strive always to serve and give our lives back to Him in thanksgiving.