‘True Greatness Comes from Being a Servant’

Arun Kumar csc –

Readings: Is 53: 10-11; Heb 4: 14-16; Mk 10: 35-45

In the first reading, Isaiah speaks of God’s servant who suffers but remains faithful. This suffering leads to something far greater than the pain itself. The servant offers his life as a sacrifice for sin, bringing healing and salvation to many. While suffering can often seem unfair or meaningless, God can transform it to bring about good. Jesus, as the ultimate servant, shows us how to turn suffering into love and salvation for others.

As Pope Francis says, “To embrace the cross, we need the courage that comes from faith.” Through faith, we can unite our pain with Christ’s redemptive suffering. In the second reading, we are reminded that Jesus is our “high priest” who understands our weaknesses. He has been tested like us but remained without sin. Jesus knows what it feels like to face life’s challenges, and because of this, we can approach Him with confidence, trusting that he will offer us the help we need. Pope Francis reminds us that “Jesus is the face of the Father’s mercy,” showing us that through Christ’s understanding and compassion, we are never alone in our struggles.

In the gospel, James and John ask Jesus for places of honour in his kingdom. However, Jesus explains that following him isn’t about power or prestige; it’s about sharing in his suffering. True greatness, he says, comes from being a servant. We often seek recognition or success, but Jesus flips this idea upside down. Real greatness is found in humility and service to others. If we truly want to follow Jesus, we must be willing to serve, just as he did.