September 25th - Reflection

Luke 9:43b-48 (NRSV)
Welcoming little ones

While everyone was amazed at all that he was doing, he said to his disciples, "Let these words sink into your ears: The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into human hands." But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was concealed from them, so that they could not perceive it. And they were afraid to ask him about this saying.

An argument arose among them as to which one of them was the greatest. But Jesus, aware of their inner thoughts, took a little child and put it by his side, and said to them, "Whoever welcomes this child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me; for the least among all of you is the greatest."

Reflection
I'm not sure we ever did let Jesus' words sink into our ears. The disciples didn't understand, and I know that we don't completely understand. Instead of asking questions, the subject was avoided. But Jesus would not let this be avoided. For a time he remains patient. Jesus continues to teach and heal. Jesus continues to demonstrate that the least are the greatest.

Look around yourself and think of the least. Walk among the least in the standards of this world. In the least you will clearly see the Light of God shining most brightly. They are not concentrating on their own goods and material resources. The least are living life moment by moment. In the least you will find Jesus.

And Jesus became the least and hung from that cross, in order that the least may become the greatest. The least live life. Live life to the fullest. See the spark in the eye, the smile on the face and hear the laugh. You have witnessed Jesus. Love the least and celebrate that Love with them. You will one day be the least. Keep that hope and faith in life with Jesus and let his words sink into your ears.

Prayer
Lord, let your Word sink into my ears that I may be a vessel to serve as you serve and love as you love. --- Amen