Serving and Loving Links

The Roman Catholic Lectionary today connects with the Holy Week events in Jesus life through the poems of the suffering servant in the Book of Isaiah. Friar Jude Winkler points out that Jesus made reference to these poems during His ministry to give examples of the nature of the Messiah  He is for Israel.  The first poem portrays one who does not use force to achieve his goals. The Spirit of God working in the servant of God brings peace, justice and light. The Way to freedom from the blind conformity to the mediocre norms of today is in relationship with the Suffering Servant and those we are lead to encounter with our gentle Spirit inspired service. In the Gospel of John, Jesus is gathered with His friends Mary, Martha and Lazarus. He is aware of the path on which He is walking which will bring Him into conflict with the religious authorities who will seek His death. We understand that they already seek to kill Lazarus, who had been raised from the dead by Jesus previously. The use, by Mary, of very expensive nard to anoint His feet brings into focus the tension between the gesture of deep love of Mary for Jesus and the utilitarian good work of using that money for the poor. Friar Jude uses this event to state the need we have to approach the poor and those we serve with the gift of dignity which is not always offered by the one with the money, privilege or education. In the inclusion of those we serve in relationship with us, we give what money cannot buy. Our action to see the needs of the person is cause of concern for those who need to retain control of the outcasts. The servant in Isaiah is an example of how to move in these actions