In the first reading we hear, “through his suffering, my servant shall justify many.” Are we willing to suffer for the benefit of others? I have often wondered if I would be brave enough to follow the example of those on the Titanic who voluntarily gave up their places in lifeboats so that others could escape. Or even the officers in our cities and towns, who sometimes look into the face of death as they do their job to protect others in the community.
In the psalm we ask God for his mercy. Do we really place our trust in him? Are we willing to give to others the same mercy we are asking for ourselves? When we make a mistake, we think we deserve mercy, yet when others make mistakes, we demand justice.
The second reading invites us to “Let us hold fast to our confession.” Do we hold fast even when it is uncomfortable or not popular? There is the old saying that if we don’t stand for something we will fall for anything.
In the Gospel we first notice the disciples jockeying for positions of power and authority. How many of us will volunteer for the lowliest position if we cannot be the boss? Jesus says whoever wants to be great must be the servant of all. Are we willing to let go of our ego and our will for the sake of others? Are we willing to clean the latrines as quickly as head up the field office?
Countenance of God 