Part of getting older, and hopefully wiser, is knowing when to keep your mouth firmly shut. In your opinion, the way that person is cutting an onion, or manoeuvring a car from one lane to another, or writing a reflection on a Gospel reading, is not at all how you would do it. In fact, they are doing it wrong! And should they be doing it at all?

In today’s Gospel, Jesus challenges us to rethink our ideas of greatness and leadership. In our world, greatness is often associated with power, status, and recognition. But Jesus turns this notion upside down. True greatness lies in humility and service to others, especially the most vulnerable and overlooked.

This Sunday’s readings highlight the arduous nature of the journey of discipleship. In the first reading, Isaiah speaks of a servant who listens to God's voice and does not turn away from suffering. This servant embodies the essence of discipleship, embracing hardship for a purpose greater than himself. The Epistle of James further challenges us, asserting that faith without works is dead. It is a reminder that our mistakes and shortcomings must be met with action and compassion, not merely words.