We are called to serve and not to be served

1 Cor. 15:12-20, Lk. 8:1-3. In today's first reading, Paul stresses on the importance of faith in the resurrection of Christ. Without that we would have no hope of a future life and our faith would be utter folly. Apparently, some of his critics in Corinth argued that bodily resurrection from death was impossible. Paul tells them in no simple terms that this is a wrong understanding of the Gospel message. With the hope of eternal life, he urges us to grow into the image of the risen Christ by modelling our lives on Jesus. Based on his believe in the resurrection, Paul invites us to live simple ordinary lives, showing love and kindness to others just as Jesus did. Like Jesus who lived a frugal life of loving service, we are invited to grow in His image so that we can inherit eternal life.

It is right to honour Jesus as the Servant of all, for his purpose in life was “not to be served but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Yet, Jesus also needs our cooperation to bring us to eternal life. He was at times dependent on the generosity of others as today's Gospel gives the names of several women: Mary Magdalene, Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Susanna and many others who travelled with Jesus and helped in His work. They provided for Him out of their own resources and this enabled Him to serve many others. Today, we are called to serve and welcome the services of others, because we need them as much as they need us. Serving others is a call for generosity; letting ourselves be served calls for humility and recognising that others can bring to us what we do not have within ourselves.

May the Lord recreate through us a new world where injustice and destruction will give way to growth and be at the service of others! Amen!! Stay safe and have a wonderful day!!!