Theme of the Day: Followers Of Christ Are Humble Servants
Humility and pride are polar opposites. Pride exalts self at the expense of God and others. Humility exalts God and others at the expense of self. Pride is the essential vice, for it increases one’s hunger for all other sins. Humility increases one’s hunger for the forgiveness and healing found in Christ. The one who is proud demands to be served. The one who is humble is not content unless serving others. St. Augustine described it this way: “It was pride that changed angels into devils; it is humility that makes men as angels.”
As we see all Christ did to serve us, our hearts are changed. Within us grows a Christ-like longing to serve others, without counting the cost, without any desire to be repaid. Those who are in positions of Christian leadership understand that their leadership can only be achieved through service. For followers of Christ are humble servants.
Mark 9:30-37
Numbers 12:1-15
James 3:13-18
Psalm 115A
910 – Lord Jesus Christ, the Children’s Friend
767 – Lord of Glory, You Have Bought Us
582 – Not unto Us
645 – One Thing’s Needful
737 – Lord, Help Us Walk Your Servant Way
Prayer of the Day: Mercifully grant, O God, that your Holy Spirit may in all things direct and rule our hearts, for without your help we are unable to please you; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all. Alleluia.