Daily Gospel Reflection for April 9, 2020

Reflection by Leona Peszka Today's Gospel: John 13:1-15 There is no greater demonstration of genuine humility than that of our Lord washing the feet of His Apostles. But, why did He do it? Every act, every sign, every word that came from Jesus was out of love, pure and selfless. And this occasion was no exception. Our gospel tells us that Jesus knew the time was coming for Him to suffer and die and yet, instead of focusing on His own fear and trepidation, He attended to His apostles with a servant’s heart. He tenderly took their dirty feet, washed them in a basin and then dried them with a towel. Before He left this world, Jesus wanted to impart His model of a servant leader. He wanted the apostles to know that no one person is greater than another and that we can only truly be disciples if we minister to others with humble and compassionate hearts. But most of all, He wanted them to understand how limitless His love was; so much so that He knelt before them, washed them in mercy and prepared them to share His message of forgiveness and everlasting life.

Ponder:

How can I be a servant leader to my family today?

Pray:

Lord, help me to follow Your example of selfless love, to humbly serve others with mercy and grace.

Copyright 2020 Leona Peszka Leona was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA and is a graduate of the University of Tampa. She was commissioned as a Lay Ecclesial Minister by the Bishop of the Diocese of St. Petersburg, FL in June of 2014. She is currently the Program Assistant and Theological Reflection Mentor for the Lay Pastoral Ministry Institute in that diocese. Her experience includes involvement in numerous parish liturgical, spiritual and pastoral ministries. Receive CatholicMom.com newsletters in your inbox, including the Daily Gospel Reflection each morning! * indicates required