GOSPEL: LK 9:46-50
AN argument arose among the disciples about which of them was the greatest.
Jesus realized the intention of their hearts and took a child and placed it by his side and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest.” Then John said in reply, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow in our company.” Jesus said to him, “Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you.”
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In the Kingdom of God, what matters most is not possession of power and authority but service to the least – the children. Throughout Luke, Jesus is pictured as the master-teacher who is caring and compassionate towards sinners, the afflicted, the outcast, the poor and lowly, and those who recognize their dependence on God (cf Lk 4:18; 6:20-23; 7:36-50; 16:19-31; 18:9-14; 19:1-10; 21:1-4).
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SOURCE: “365 Days with the Lord 2020,” ST. PAULS Philippines, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 895-9701; Fax 8957328; E-mail: books@stpauls. ph; Website: http://www.stpauls.