In this reading Jesus tells his disciples that they should not crave status and power but must be the servants of all. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects on the implications for us.
Gospel Reflections
‘Sell everything you own and give the money to the poor’
In this reading Jesus makes clear that material possessions – or a love of them – can hold us back as his followers. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘What God has united, man must not divide’
In this reading, Jesus teaches about the commitment and fidelity needed in marriage and the treatment of children in a healthy society. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Anyone who is not against us is for us’
In this reading Jesus warns us against the exclusive attitude which says that, unless someone completely shares our opinions and our faith, they can do no good. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘If anyone wants to be first, he must make himself last’
Jesus counters the disciples’ preoccupation with status by calling on them to take the place of the least and illustrates this by placing a child before them. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘You are the Christ’
Jesus neither welcomes nor rejects Peter’s assertion about his identity but instead speaks for the first time of his suffering, death and resurrection. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘He makes the deaf hear and the dumb speak’
This miracle story takes place in pagan territory, demonstrating Jesus’ openness to healing all people – and he uses techniques used by healers in ancient times, perhaps to show that all healing is the work of God. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘You put aside the commandment of God to cling to human traditions’
In this reading, Jesus shows how human practices can sometimes obscure the deeper demands of faith. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘The words I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life’
Jesus’ teaching about the Eucharist is difficult for some of his followers to accept – but the Twelve make a firm commitment to him. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘I am the living bread which has come down from heaven’
In speaking of his flesh and blood which he gives to us, Jesus is employing a metaphor for his very self. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.