Christ, our model of humility and service

Readings: 1st: Acts 13:13-25; Ps: 88; Gos John 13:16-20

This brief reflection was written by Rev. Fr. Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. He is a Catholic Priest and a Member of the Congregation of the Holy Ghost Fathers and Brothers (Spiritans). He is currently working with the Spiritan International Group of Puerto Rico &  Dominican Republic. He is the Administrator of Parroquia La Resurrección del Senor, Canovanas and the Chancellor of the Diocesis of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. For more details and comments contact him on: canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, cancilleriadfh@gmail.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com.

Today, Thursday of the fourth week of Easter, the Gospel is taken from a long conversation of Jesus with the disciples during the Last Supper.

Today’s Gospel draw two conclusions from the washing of the feet. It speaks of service as the principal characteristic of the followers of Jesus. Second, it speaks of the identity of Jesus as the revelation of the Father.

The symbolic value of Christ’s gesture of the washing of the feet consists in accepting him as Messiah Servant who gives Himself for others. This is the gift of himself. To understand this is the root of the happiness.

What we see in all of this is, a great display of humility. Although many of his disciples did not understand it immediately, latter many of them did. They did not want the Messiah servant, or suffering messiah, but the glorious messiah.

However, through his action, Christ proved to them that before assuming the glorious state, one must humble himself, and serve others. He is himself the model of service.

So, He teaches us that, his followers are called to serve. On this theme, Saint Ignatius of Antioch reminds us that, love is shown more in deeds than, in words.

Therefore, let us ask God to help us allow his word in our mind and heart to become evident in our actions. Also, that we might recognize where God wants us to be, and what he wants us to do for him.

Alleluia, Alleluia!

Peace be with you all!

Maranatha!