“Jesus said…: ‘The stone the builders have rejected has become the cornerstone; by the Lord has this been done, and it is wonderful in our eyes.’”
Matthew 21:42
In the Gospel, we have a parable about a property owner’s son (Jesus) who became a victim of hate. The Christ whom the Jewish authorities rejected is now the foundation of a new order in the universe through his death and resurrection. Yes, Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of our life, and calls us to be leaders and life-coaches to others. To be called by God to serve others -- that's leadership -- is an enormous blessing, but it carries with it great responsibility
We must possess two things to serve in this kind of role: confidence, not only in ourselves, but first and foremost confidence in God; and character. Leadership involves ethics, a sense of responsibility, a value system, integrity. Moral character counts. David Brooks makes that very point in his best seller, The Road to Character.
The quality of our life and our soul’s destiny ultimately will be measured by our character: going the extra mile; helping a fellow human being; being faithful in our relationships and responsibilities; working for the common good; trusting in a good and compassionate God who is ever near to us in the challenges of everyday life.
Do I try to uplift others through an encouraging word or a thoughtful gesture as Jesus did for the people he met?
Lord, help me to become like Jesus, "a person for others": a man/a woman of confidence and character.
Today’s Reflection is by:
Kevin Mackin
Did you know...
Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM, of St. Anthony Friary in St. Petersburg, has served in parish ministry and chaplaincy, and as a college president and professor. His articles and books include Enjoying God's Gifts; Get Thee Behind Me, Satan: Rejecting Evil; and Christian Unity: The Next Step 'That They May All Be One.' His website is www.FatherKevin.com.
