MESSAGE 20 October – 22nd Sunday after PENTECOST YEAR B
THEME: Greatness in the Kingdom of God
Greatness in God’s eyes is quite different from greatness in the eyes of the world. To sit at Christ’s right hand is to hang with thieves, to dine with sinners, to serve tirelessly. Indeed, to drink the cup that Jesus drank and to be baptized with martyrdom and death is not something for which most of us yearn. Yet, many do yearn to follow in Christ’s steps, to serve with generosity, to live with kindness, to walk with humility, to care with compassion, and to be a servant to God’s purpose in our lives. This yearning draws us to Christ’s side and clothes us with the greatest glory of all . . . the glory of love.
These readings collectively call us to embrace a life of humility, service, and courageous faith. They remind us that true greatness in God’s kingdom is found not in seeking power or status, but in serving others and trusting in God’s wisdom and plan. As we follow Jesus’ example, we are encouraged to live boldly and sacrificially, embodying the spirit of servanthood in our daily lives.
What does greatness mean? In the readings this week we are confronted with God’s greatness as God questions Job.
We see God’s glory revealed in creation, but we also encounter God’s glory in God’s compassionate rescue of those who cry out to God.
We recognise the greatness of Jesus whom God has appointed as a high priest because he journeyed through suffering and is able to offer salvation.
And we learn that those who are great in God’s Reign are those who are willing to be the servants of all – just as Jesus came not to be served but to serve.
The contrast between the God of creation and the suffering servant, Jesus, is a powerful way for the Lectionary to address the question of greatness.
While God has all the power and glory that the name implies, even God does not express God’s greatness in domination and conquest.
Rather, in the incarnation, God’s glory and greatness are revealed through humility, service and the embrace of suffering.
For those who seek greatness on God’s terms, we must expect that the same should be true for us – and this is exactly what Jesus taught.
The challenge for us this week is to decide whether we can find the courage to define greatness in this way, and, if we can, to live as “great ones” in God’s Reign.
Job 38:1-7
Theme: Recognizing God’s Greatness
God’s Power: God reminds Job of His incredible power and wisdom in creating the world. This helps us remember that God is in control, even when life feels chaotic.
Trust and Humility: We might not always understand why things happen, but we can trust that God knows what He’s doing. This encourages us to stay humble and rely on His wisdom.
Daily Application: When faced with challenges, instead of getting frustrated, we can remind ourselves of God’s greatness and choose to trust Him. This might look like praying for guidance or simply taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of creation around us.
Hebrews 5:1-10
Theme: Jesus as Our High Priest
Chosen by God: Jesus didn’t take on the role of high priest by Himself; He was chosen by God. This shows us that our roles and callings are part of God’s plan.
Learning Through Suffering: Jesus learned obedience through His suffering, which means our tough times can also teach us and bring us closer to God.
Daily Application: When we face difficulties, we can see them as opportunities to grow and learn, just like Jesus did. We can also seek to understand our unique callings and trust that God has a purpose for us.
Mark 10:35-45
Theme: True Greatness Through Serving
Serving Others: James and John wanted to be important, but Jesus taught that true greatness comes from serving others. He showed this by serving and sacrificing Himself for us.
Leading by Example: Jesus led by serving, not by seeking power. This flips the usual idea of leadership on its head.
Daily Application: We can look for ways to serve others in our daily lives, whether it’s helping a neighbour, volunteering, or simply being kind and supportive to those around us. Leading by example means showing love and humility in our actions.
Putting It All Together
These passages remind us to trust in God’s wisdom, embrace our challenges as growth opportunities, and find true greatness in serving others. As disciples, we can live courageously by following Jesus’ example of humility and service.