When Jesus was walking the earth, his country was under occupation. The Romans were the enforcers of his day, and intimidation was their specialty. When Jesus speaks of the rulers of this world he is speaking from the personal experience of living under an authoritarian government. At the end of today’s gospel (Mt 20:17-28), Jesus says, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and the great ones make their authority over them felt.” This could be written to us, on this day, instead of two millennia ago. There have always been leaders who rule with an iron fist.
Jesus rebukes this style of leadership. “But it shall not be so among you. Rather whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave.” I am certain that this concept was surprising to his listeners; it is a counter cultural proposition. It is an outlandish suggestion for the modern thinker.
In an authoritarian style of leadership there is not room for respect for human life, for the dignity of individuals, or for living in peace and love. Jesus asks us to make these notions a priority by becoming servants of those who work for or learn from us. It does not mean we have no self-respect, rather it means we put the needs of others before our own, while maintaining our well-being. It means listening, respecting, and loving them, showing the way, leading by example.
What a contrast this presents to what is being exemplified in our country.
Most adults find themselves leading others in one way or another. The challenge for today is to take a moment to consider how we are measuring up to the standard set by Jesus.
Dear Lord, Be with me in my leadership roles. Help me to shy away from principles of domination. Let me be humble in my interactions with others. Strengthen me to lead by example, to love those God has entrusted to me.
Amen
The Last Lap (and what comes next) 