It shall not be so among you.

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Eight Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mk 10:32-45*

*First Reading : 1 Pt 1:18-25*

*It shall not be so among you.*

In the Gospel of the day Jesus speaks about many things, which should not take place in our life. They are the following

*1) Division*

In the Gospel Jesus first of all speaks about the division among the disciples 

There was a division between two and ten 

Ten became very angry with the two and there was a division between them 

Division happened because of the tussle for power and authority

*2) Influence through the parents for selfish goals*

Here we see the Mother of James and John came to Jesus to ask for a favour 

It is the mother who is coming on behalf of the sons to ask for a favour 

It is a favour filled with selfish purpose and hidden motives 

A mother influencing, for the selfish purpose does not look nice. In fact a mother should not interfere in such matters 

*3) Greed for power and Authority*

We also see the greed for power among the disciples 

Because of such greed mother comes to plead with Jesus 

Because of such greed, James and John use their mother to get the favour 

Because of such greed the ten become very angry with the two 

Ultimately the greed spoils whole thing

*4) Master and Slave/Servant relationship*

Jesus also gives a hint to the relationship which will exist after one gets the authority 

Jesus says *You know that those who are recognized as rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones make their authority over them felt.*

This particular view tells us that the power and the position which James and John wanted ultimately lead them to make others as servants or slaves

So Jesus warns them not to have such an attitude 

*5) Work for following things*

Jesus also tells us to which things should happen in our life 

One should not afraid to face any challenges while living ones life in the service of another 

Service oriented life is more important than anything else 

Humility is the genuine mark of the followers of Jesus 

Work for the building of the kingdom of God through the team work

One should not break the team work but should work to strengthen the Unity 

*6) How about my Life?*

What things are happening in my life? 

Am I allowing those things which are not suppose to happen in my life? 

What are those things from which I should remain far to live my life in a worthy way?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*