Do you wish to become great or First?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 7th Week - Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mk 9:30-37*

*First Reading : Sir 2:1-11*

*Do you wish to become great or First???*

*1) Greatest, First and Last*

These are the three words which we find in today's Gospel. 

The disciples were busy in discussing about who was greatest among them 

Jesus Speaks about not the *greatest* but the *First*

So what is the difference between these 

*2) Greatest Among the Disciples*

In the discussion among the disciples there is a comparison between them 

Greatest is always measured by comparing the others value or worth 

So they were trying to see who is good among themselves according to their understanding or according to the worldly understanding

*3) First and Last in Jesus' teaching*

Here we don't have comparison. One is not compared With others 

Instead of Comparison we have a model. That is the *Child Model*

Since there is no comparison but only a model to be followed one needs to evaluate ones life based on *Child Model* and not comparing among oneself 

*4) Child Model and Comparison*

In Child model there is a perfection

There are some things which are perfect without any doubt 

A model is always a replica of perfection

In comparison there is no perfection, there are no yardsticks to evaluate what is perfect and what is best 

So Jesus speaks about the *First* and not the *Greatest*

Greatest is based on worldly standards. But *First* is based on Gospel Values

*5) How to Become First*

One needs to follow the child Model 

In Child model these things are in a perfect way 

Trust in Parents/God

Bond of relationship

No revengeful attitude 

No gossip

No ambition for worldly things 

Cleanliness of Heart and Mind

No selfish interests

No accumulated things 

Trying to become happy with whatever it has 

*6) Do you wish to become First?*

If yes, need to follow the Child Model 

What are the values of Child model I have in my Life?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*