BEADS OF JOY 09-26-16
“Who Is Least Among You”
©2016 James Dacey, Jr. OFS
My Friends,
Today’s Gospel: Luke 9:46-50 (Who Is Least Among You)
“And an argument arose among them as to which of them was the greatest. But when Jesus perceived the thought of their hearts, he took a child and put him by his side, and said to them, "Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me; for he who is least among you all is the one who is great." John answered, "Master, we saw a man casting out demons in your name, and we forbade him, because he does not follow with us." But Jesus said to him, "Do not forbid him; for he that is not against you is for you."
Reflection:
The world’s method of being first is not like our Lord’s. I think most of us already knew that; but of cause in all fairness some may not have known that. Anything usually contrary to the grains and direction of this worldly life, is pretty much opposite of the ways of our Lord. I guess it’s not surprising to learn that the disciples would argue who was the greatest amongst themselves. Don’t we do that at work? Or even amongst our siblings? I’m the best salesperson… I’m the best manager… I’m the Number 1 Producer this month… I’m the smartest child… I’m the most successful… Hasn’t it in many ways for us, always been about stepping out into the lead? And leaving others in our dust? Why would we be surprised to hear the disciples want to know who the greatest is also?
We must rather always seek to be the least and humble before our Lord with Jesus Christ as our role model. Let us reflect upon some scripture to inspire and encourage and direct us: I love scripture!
“just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” ~Matthew 20:28
“but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant” ~Philippians 2:7
“God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” ~James 4:6
“But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves;” ~2 Corinthians 4:7
If indeed we are filled with the Holy Spirit, then the Holy Spirit will lead us humbly to our Lord. Our goals and our dreams in this life can still be noble and forthright; yet they must not be selfish and worldly. I know that there is a fine line to find there, but by God’s Grace He will help guide you. Sometimes it’s all about the love you share or the charity of sharing that you have in your life, that makes you very humble. Those who are successful are not evil and I am not against success. I promote and encourage success. But we must always keep in mind “others” when we are successful. Success is not another word for selfishness. That is what I teach our children. I explain that their care and concern for others must always come first. First to their siblings, if God forbid they are ever suffering or in trouble, then to everyone else. Faith! Family! Friends!
I am a very simply person not desiring wealth or fame, God knows my heart. A simply life, a simply meal, a roof over my head and knowing my family is doing well; that is my goal. Oh yeah, and the chance to share with all of you each day. My Bible and Rosary in hand and I am a happy man. God knows my heart. As we journey closer and closer to be with Jesus our greatest goal, our greatest achievement in life, in my opinion; should not be one of public note, but one of faith based family legacy. Our example of how we live our lives each day and in our “notes, stories” and “experiences” documented that can be passed down through the generations, will indeed be our greatest legacy to pass on. Humble and silent, yet powerful and loud, cheering praises to our Lord centuries ahead. That my friends, is my vision of God working through me, his humble servant. Till tomorrow my friends. Keep smiling.
LOVE YOU GUYS !!!!
Your brother in Christ Jesus
And His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS
**(NEW DAILY FEATURE)
Today is Monday: We pray the Joyful Mysteries:
The Joyful Mysteries
1. The Annunciation (Humility) – Luke 1:26-28
2. The Visitation (Love of Neighbor) – Luke 1:39-45
3. The Birth of Jesus (Poverty of Spirit) – Luke 2:1-20
4. The Presentation (Purity of Mind and Spirit) – Luke 2:22-38
5. Finding in The Temple (Obedience) –Luke 2:41-50
I simply love mornings, because they always begin with the Rosary.
Rosary Man Jim’s Joyful Reflection: http://beads-of-joy-blog.blogspot.com/2014/02/the-joyful-mysteries_10.html
