Lenten Reflection Day 17 ~ Monday Third Week of Lent

Opening Prayers:

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be, and Confiteor (see Day 1).

Scripture Reading (Matthew 20:25–28):

“You know that the princes of the Gentiles lord it over them: and they that are the greater, exercise power upon them. It shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be the greater among you, let him be your minister: and he that will be first among you, shall be your servant. Even as the Son of man is not come to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a redemption for many.”

Reflection:

Today’s reading comes as a response to a misunderstanding of greatness. The mother of James and John had just requested special places of honor for her sons in Christ’s Kingdom. Jesus gently corrects her and the disciples by teaching that true greatness lies not in status or power, but in selfless service.

This teaching lies at the heart of Christian discipleship and is particularly meaningful during Lent, a season when we seek to imitate Christ more perfectly. “The Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve.” The eternal King of Heaven, who created all things, humbly came to wash feet, to heal, to forgive, and ultimately to suffer and die for others. His entire life was one great act of humility and charity. So too must ours be.

Our Lord redefines greatness as ministering; literally, becoming a servant. This is no small challenge for our prideful nature. Many of us instinctively seek recognition, appreciation, or control. But Christ says that the true path to glory passes through the valley of humility. “Whosoever would be first among you, let him be your servant.”

This radical reversal stands in contrast with worldly thinking. In society, greatness is usually measured by wealth, influence, and power. But in the Gospel, the great ones are those who serve the least, who bear hidden burdens patiently, who choose the low place rather than the high. St. Augustine remarks, “Pride changed angels into devils; humility makes men into angels.” Lent is an opportunity to dethrone the idol of self and enthrone Christ by acts of service and lowliness.

Ask yourself today: How can I serve others quietly and humbly? How can I put someone else’s needs before my own, in imitation of Christ? It might be as simple as helping someone without being asked, listening patiently to another’s burdens, or forgiving a long-standing grudge. These hidden acts of charity are deeply pleasing to God. As St. Therese of Lisieux reminds us, “Charity consists in bearing all with love.”

Let us also remember that Jesus not only taught service, but embodied it in His Passion. He gave His life “as a ransom for many.” That is the highest form of service—offering one’s very self for the good of others. As we move closer to Passiontide, contemplate how you can unite your own sacrifices—however small—to Christ’s redeeming sacrifice. When we offer our work, our sufferings, our inconveniences for others, we participate in that same redemptive service.

Finally, consider this: Lent is not only a time of personal renewal, but a time to renew our relationships. Perhaps we might use this week to “serve” in our families, offering more patience, more encouragement, more attention. Service need not be dramatic; it is often in the small things done with great love that holiness is found.

May we heed the words of our Lord today and walk His path of humility and service, trusting that those who humble themselves will one day be exalted.

Closing Prayers:

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.

R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

V: Let us bless the Lord.

R: Thanks be to God.

V: May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

R: Amen.