Twenty Fourth Sunday of the year (Year B)

 Twenty Fourth Sunday of the year – September 15, 2024

Isaiah 50:5-9; James 2:14-18; Mark 8:27-35

(image courtesy: Google)

A little Chinese girl about eight years old was a close observer of the Missionary priest of their village church. She used to watch him at his prayers in the church, listened closely to his teaching and preaching, and watched him as he went about visiting the sick or consoling those in sorrow and pain.  She stopped with him and cheered people as he greeted them in the street. He always had a kind word, a smile, a little advice for the young and sometimes a sweet for the children.  One day the girl went to the neighboring village.  They were having catechism that day and the Sister was telling them of the man who was always kind, who helped the sick, cheered up those discouraged and sad, and who always went about doing well.  Noticing the strange girl the Sister asked her if she knew who this Person was. The girl quickly replied: “He is the Missionary Father from our Village.”

The first reading from Isaiah speaks of the suffering servant, who endures persecution and humiliation yet remains steadfast in faith. The Gospel presents Peter’s confession of Jesus as the Messiah and Jesus’ subsequent teaching about the necessity of suffering and self-denial.

The Suffering Servant: A Model of Faithfulness

In the first reading, we encounter the figure of the suffering servant, who embodies unwavering faith in God despite facing trials. This passage invites us to reflect on our own lives and the challenges we encounter. Like the servant, we may experience moments of doubt, rejection, or suffering. Yet, it is in these moments that our faith can be most profoundly tested and strengthened.

The servant’s response to suffering is one of trust and obedience. He does not retaliate or seek vengeance; instead, he places his confidence in God’s justice. This is a powerful reminder for us as we navigate our own struggles. When we face adversity, do we respond with anger and bitterness, or do we seek to trust in God’s plan? The call to be a servant of God often involves embracing our own suffering and using it as a means to grow closer to Him.

Peter’s Confession and the Cost of Discipleship

In the Gospel reading, Peter’s confession of Jesus as the Messiah marks a pivotal moment in the disciples’ journey. However, Jesus quickly reveals that being the Messiah involves suffering and sacrifice. “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” This statement challenges our understanding of what it means to be a disciple.

Following Jesus is not merely about enjoying the benefits of faith; it requires a willingness to embrace the cross. This can be a difficult teaching, especially in a culture that often prioritizes comfort and self-fulfilment. Yet, it is through the cross that we find true life and purpose. Jesus invites us to let go of our self-centred desires and to embrace a life of service and sacrifice.

The Transformative Power of Forgiveness

At the heart of today’s readings is the theme of forgiveness. The suffering servant exemplifies the power of forgiveness, as does Jesus in his own life and ministry. Forgiveness is not always easy; it often requires us to confront our own pain and vulnerability. However, it is through forgiveness that we experience true freedom and healing.

As we reflect on our relationships, we must consider whether there are areas where we need to extend forgiveness or seek reconciliation. Holding onto grudges or resentment only serves to weigh us down. Jesus calls us to a higher standard, urging us to forgive as we have been forgiven. This radical love transforms not only our relationships but also our hearts.

True Discipleship: 

The corrective teaching of Jesus focuses on the meaning of true discipleship.  A disciple is one who understands the Master, follows him closely, imitates his life and communicates it to others. Here we find Jesus proclaiming almost the reversal of what most people would expect. Jesus himself is the model of discipleship. He explains that the discipleship is not about achieving power, prestige or high position. It is ultimately about service, giving one’s life for others.  Ironically discipleship involves losing one’s life, or giving it away in service of others, which will result in actually gaining one’s life through the following in the footsteps of Jesus. Through the action of Jesus the Cross, which was the sign of horrible suffering, insurrection and humiliating death becomes the sign of hope, victory and new life. Are you willing to take up the Cross? then take up the Crown. 

As we conclude our reflections, let us take to heart the lessons from today’s readings. We are called to be faithful servants, to express our gratitude for God’s deliverance, to put our faith into action, and to embrace the cross as we follow Christ.

May we strive to live out our faith authentically, allowing the love of God to flow through us in our actions and relationships. Let us remember that true discipleship involves both joy and sacrifice, and that in our willingness to serve and forgive, we reflect the very heart of Christ to the world around us. Thus we can be the Christ to all whom we meet like the missionary Father in that village.

Happy Sunday