Seeing the need...

Sometimes, we can be blinded to the needs or plight of others. Our needs, our current situation takes precedence, making us oblivious- our ears, eyes, hearts closed off.

Growing up during the apartheid era in South Africa, inequality, unemployment and poverty was rife. We were accustomed to individuals or families knocking at the door in need of food, clothing or employment. You were acutely aware of the needs of others- it was in your face, often several times a day.

Today, with our busy lives, it's easy to overlook the poor, or consider their needs the responsibility of Church or social service organizations. I've mentioned before that our almsgiving can often be at arm's-length. It's easy to overlook the sick or the elderly, and during the pandemic we have a good excuse not to visit. We ignore the needs of others because we are consumed by our own...

Jesus was going to Jerusalem. He knew what awaited Him there. I imagine His distress, and I marvel at His concern for the disciples; He wanted to prepare them for what was coming,

"Behold, we are going to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death, and hand him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and scourged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day." (Mt 20:18-19)

Surely they should have pondered the gravity of those words for days; or spent time praying, asking God for strength to endure the test that was to come. Instead, the mother of James and John was canvassing for positions of honor for her sons- she wanted them in the top seats in Jesus' kingdom. The other disciples were furious at the brothers. Who was concerned about Jesus, and His needs? Oh, the selfishness of the human heart!

Perhaps they did not fully understand the cost of discipleship. My selfish nature does not want the cup of suffering; does not want to serve or give my life for others, but this is the call of every follower of Christ.

May the love of God that has been poured into our hearts give us the strength to see the needs of others, and prompt us to serve as Jesus taught us.