Before entering the seminary, we had our mid-year performance evaluation in the company where I used to work. After the evaluation, they offered me a promotion to a supervisory position which comes with a higher offer and more attractive set of benefits. In my entire career, it was my first time to be offered such position. I admit that somehow, I felt affirmed and proud of myself. Truth be told, it became one of the factors in my discernment if I should still pursue my entry into the seminary or just ask to be deferred for a certain period. I felt that I was at a crossroad: should I accept the promotion or pursue my vocation through the seminary?

As I discern, I realized that this is one of the challenges that I must face as I continue heeding the call to the priesthood; that there will always be sacrifices. As for me, the promotion was one of those things I needed to give up. With a humble heart, I rejected the offer and decided to pursue my resignation. I chose a life that will lead me closer to Him.

The Gospel today teaches me that status and positions are insignificant in my journey toward self-giving and selfless service to the people of God. The scene in the Gospel is one of the instances where the disciples acted immaturely in their quest for status. Christ used a young child as an example and took this opportunity to subtly inculcate on them that greatness is not acquiring power or position but in conforming one’s life to His. Christ directs me not to seek titles, positions, or worldly possessions. As a child of our Heavenly Father, I must always have a humble heart to accept that greatness comes not with status or position but with my very identity as his lowly yet beloved child.

By: Sem. Adriane V. Gabito

Today’s Gospel

Luke 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.”