First shall be Last

First Reading: Psalm: Gospel:

1 Peter 1:10-16 Psalm 98:1-4 Mark 10:28-31

Mark 10:31  But many that are first will be last, and the last first."

There may not be a verse in the Bible that is more contrary to today's society than this one.  Our world is all about being first.  And that isn't just capitalistic societies either. Any people who place their own agenda ahead of God's purpose is putting himself first.  There are many that offer a false sense of charity when they are willing to give something to someone in need, but only in expectation that the needy will continue to depend on that person and thereby give them a certain power over them.  Liberation doesn't mean dependence on government.  It is like the old give a man a fish or teach a man to fish proverb.

If the last are to be first they truly must be first, not just pawns placed out in front to take the shots. That means they must be free and that comes with a price.  It will cost us the chance at being first.

Father, help me by your Holy Spirit to not seek to be first in this world, but to be willing to be last here and thereby become first in your world.  Help me to value the things of heaven over the things of this world.

Amen