Word to the Wise
Sunday, February 8, 2015 - 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time - B
[Job 7:1-4, 6-7; 1 Cor 9:16-19, 22-23; Mark 1:29-39]Although I am free in regard to all, I have made myself a slave to all so as to win over as many as possible. To the weak I became weak, to win over the weak. I have become all things to all, to save at least some. All this I do for the sake of the gospel, so that I too may have a share in it. [1 Corinthians]
I have met people who try to do what St. Paul says in this passage. They were either burnt out or headed for it very soon. I know that I cannot match his energy or the way he describes himself in this scripture. At the same time, I know the experience of trying to meet multiple needs with finite talent!
Note the gospel passage today that describes Jesus as going off to a deserted place to pray and Peter finding him with the words: "Everyone is looking for you!" Clearly there is a point where ministerial efforts reach the end of the available supply of energy. The wise disciple knows how to call it quits and retire from the scene so that he or she can live to serve another day. If they do not, eventually a feeling of resentment comes over them and they begin to view the People of God as a kind of adversary or "black hole" of need.
A wise disciple looks at his or her talents and finds a way to use them without destroying them in the process. One of the best things a parishioner can ask a pastor is: "Are you taking your day off?" In the long run, wise ministry means saying "No" on occasion and letting others take over. AMEN