Word to the Wise
Wednesday, May 30, 2007 - Eighth Wednesday in Ordinary Time
[Sirach 36:1, 4-5a, 10-17 and Mark 10:32-45]"You know that those who are recognized as rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones make their authority over them felt. But it shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all."
It seems clear that Jesus is appealing to a universal experience that the disciples would recognize: the style of governance by rulers among the Gentiles. The big shots made sure that others KNEW they (the leaders) were big shots. In short, they pushed their weight around. The pep talk Jesus gives about exercising leadership in the community of the disciples arose out of the ambition expressed by two of the apostles to have positions of prestige 'in your glory.' I am sure many in my Beloved Congregation have experienced "bosses" or leaders who were determined to make sure that everyone knew their place! Lord Acton's dictum remains true: Power tends to corrupt. Absolute power tends to corrupt absolutely. Yet, time and time again in pastoral life I've seen turf battles in parishes or campus ministries. Settling these kinds of disputes could be a major headache for me. In my own time, I've had to exercise the role of pastor, administrator, Vicar Provincial, Novice Master and Prior (religious superior). I cannot say that I've found the role itself to be a very satisfying experience because of the conflicting expectations of those whom I was appointed to serve! It is truly "washing the feet of the community" and those feet can kick. Yet, Jesus proposes precisely that model. It may be a great work of charity to remind our leaders - be they Pope or Sunday Usher, that authority comes from service and not from power. The hymn, PESCADOR DE LOS HOMBRES, says it well: PODER ES SERVIR (to be powerful is to serve). AMEN
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