"But many that are first will be last, and the last will be first." - Mk 10:31
Where you, like me, always the last one standing in line at school, or seating at the back of the classroom because you we were too tall? I was that child, too tall for my age! In my mind, I wanted to be first, but in my heart, I knew it was wrong; others needed to see past me. Deciding to sacrifice for others it is not easy, but it is very rewarding for our soul. Through the readings today, we hear about sacrifices and actions, and if these come from a generous spirit, they will not be forgotten by the Lord, for He "always repays, and he will give back to [us] sevenfold". This is the promise that the Lord makes to those who sacrifice everything for the kingdom. As a child, my parents helped me grasp this concept. Simply put, by standing last in line and seating at the back of the room, others could see, and this was part of my sacrifice. This is not what we observe in society today. Everyone is fighting to be first and at the front of the line, forgetting those who are in need, poor or marginalized. I invite you to go back, to the back of the line and stand tall there. For "He that offers praise as a sacrifice glorifies me; and to him that goes the right way I will show the salvation of God."
What does sacrifice and generosity means to you?
Dear Lord, may our sacrifices be pleasing to you, and may we give fully to others with compassion and love, standing tall in our faith! Amen.
Reflection by:
Vivi Iglesias
Did you know...
Vivi Iglesias is a Community Engagement Manager with the Southeast Regional Office for Catholic Relief Services, working with the nine dioceses of the States of Florida and Georgia. Vivi serves as Region XIV Chair for the V Encuentro Process of Hispanic Ministry, and is a lay member of the Bishop's Board of Directors of the US Catholic Bishops Southeast Regional Office for Hispanic Ministry. A native of Argentina, she is a wife, mother and proud grandmother. Her experience includes almost 19 years of work with the Diocese of St. Petersburg, first in the Diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, later as Executive Secretary to the Bishop for almost eleven years, and finally as Associate Director of Hispanic Ministry.
