Daily Gospel Reflection for June 10, 2023

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Mark 12:38-44

I used to teach a mommy-and-me program at my church here in New Hampshire. Each week, my mom would drive up from Massachusetts to set up the crafts and snacks. Even though it was my program, she always arrived at the parish center before me in her dedication to the kids and moms.

Despite getting there first, she parked in the second spot in the lot, leaving the first parking space for me. This wasn’t a one-time event. She left that first space open for me every week for the eight years we ran the program! That’s just one example of the million-and-one ways my mom humbly and quietly serves others.

“Beware of the scribes, who like . . . seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets.” Mark 12:38-39

Jesus cautions His listeners about wanting attention for the good they do, and seeking places of honor for it. That concept seems counter-cultural today more than ever.

With social media and a big emphasis placed on bragging, we’re bombarded with the message that we have a right to boast - loud and proud. As a parent, it seems like we’re required to brag about our kids or we don’t look loving or proud.

Conversely, Mark 12 reminds us that the way to truly show our love for others is to serve them humbly and quietly, seeking no one’s approval, “like,” or notice but God’s.

Ponder:

When I serve others, do I do so humbly and quietly? Or am I inclined to want recognition and praise?

Pray:

Lord of humility and grace, inspire me to serve others with no other desire than to please You.

Click to tweet:
We should serve others humbly and quietly, seeking no one’s approval, “like,” or notice but God’s. #DailyGospel

Copyright 2023 Claire McGarry