Save me, O Lord, in your kindness. On a Friday I quickly scanned the print copy I had of today’s Readings which were on my desk. I was in the midst of stress, meeting an editor’s deadline for an updated chapter, and having difficulties with computer technology, i.e., the editor in another state was unable to open the attachments of my email. All of this happened on a late Friday afternoon. This phrase,
Save me, O Lord, in your kindness, caught my attention as one faculty colleague/friend was the ultimate in kindness (as was the employee in the university technology department.) Within the last hour of the last day of the work week, the problem was solved and the editor had her attachment. The important part of this story is the absolute kindness and consideration that this one particular faculty member consistently shows to others day in and day out. I greatly benefitted from her kindness and assistance. This is one story in my life in one day. I wonder how many stories each of you readers have of how you have been blessed by the kindnesses of others daily.
Save me, O Lord, in your kindness. Friday, two days ago, I was again reminded of the kindness shown by the Lord in the many people who are present in our lives and attend to our needs and wants.
You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and the great ones make their authority over them felt. But it shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave. Just so, the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve…
The above words raise many questions for me in the spiritual and other dimensions of my life. How does one understand and integrate the spirit of this message with the structural model of the Western Catholic church? Jesus gave Individuals a model by which to live. Is that the model and structure of church I experience? If not, what are creative solutions in 2011 to return to the spirit of this message? Further, how can I apply this message in every dimension of my life? At work? In personal relationships?
I take from the Readings of today –
Be kind and serve.