Descending into greatness
25th Sunday in Ordinary Time
September 24th, 2000

Descending into greatness
by Tom Cox

All three readings today tell us that good people are scarce. Mainly because we aren’t ambitious enough about the right things, peace, compassion, simple goodness. A painful situation or good person can show that like the disciples, the direction of our lives and concerns can be completely wrong. Fame, power, wealth, security, control; all these tantalise us. Despite James’ direct language (second reading); ambition isn’t a dirty word. It’s the focus of our striving that matters. Very few lack the ambition to live right. There seems to be something within us all that is of a competitive nature. Parents joust with other parents to establish who has the best and brightest children. Spouses manoeuvre with each other to determine who has the most important job or tiring day. Business associates compare title, responsibilities, track record. All this in a vain attempt to being Number 1.

At grace-filled times we shamefacedly realise the futility of measuring our significance by worldly things. Yet, a futile life can become fulfilling by following the truth Jesus proclaimed. If you want to be great - serve. Pray for a servant’s heart that you approach people as people, not someone to compete with or use. Do the right thing because it’s right, live without expectation of reward.

Child’s play really!

(Comments to Tom at stmarysrcathlone@oceanfree.net )