RBWords

     These words of Jesus appear more than once.  When James and John try to get privileged positions in what they imagine to be the future "kingdom," Jesus has to call all the disciples together to warn them that it is not a question of power "over" but power "with."  In today's gospel scripture, Jesus attacks some of the existing power situation in the Jewish community at the time.  He does not attack what the scribes and Pharisees teach, but rather the way in which they conduct themselves and take advantage of their position in the community.  "Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example."  

     When I give retreats for priests, deacons or Lay Ecclesial Ministers, I try to address the issue of "power" whenever I can.  Certain roles in the community require that an individual exercise leadership and make some decisions.  How these roles are fulfilled and how the decisions are made can be crucial to the peace and fruitfulness of the community.  Every leader has a particular "style" of leadership but whatever that style may be, I hope he or she will read Jesus' strong words in the Gospel of Matthew about the leadership of his time.  Much more can be gained from encouragement than from "bossing."  AMEN