Daily Gospel Reflection for May 26, 2015

Today’s Gospel: Mark 10:28-31

Memorial of Saint Philip Neri, Priest

At the outset of today’s gospel passage, Peter declares to Jesus that the disciples have given up everything to follow him. I wondered in reading this if Peter expected Jesus to congratulate him for this decision. Perhaps you’re like me in sometimes thinking I deserve a “pat on the back” for choosing the path I know to be right and true and just.

Jesus replies to Peter with a truth that is at once challenging and very reassuring. There are many who have sacrificed great things – family, wealth, fame, and security. But these losses are of this world and are nothing compared to the amazing bounty that will await those who choose to follow for the sake of the gospel.

“But many that are first will be last,” we read, “and the last will be first.”

To be true followers of Christ, we must set our sights on goals and blessings that are not of this world. We may often feel out of step with society’s emphasis on acquisition of material goods and power. And how easy it can be to fall into the hustle and pressure of trying to be the best, to have the most, to get to the front of the line.

Let us remember that in choosing to put others before ourselves with lives that are lived in humility and service, we are promised so much more in the age to come.

Ponder:

How do you try to follow this gospel’s teaching to be “last” in this world?

Pray:

God, I desire an eternity spent in the light of your love. Help me to seek the path of loving others, of placing them first, and lead me home to you.

We thank our friends at The Word Among Us for providing our gospel reflection team with copies of Abide In My Word 2015: Mass Readings at Your Fingertips. To pray the daily gospels with this wonderful resource, visit The Word Among Us.

Copyright 2015 Lisa Hendey