2024/09/22 SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

- Joanna Krynski, Communications Manager

Have you ever been afraid to ask a question? Too embarrassed to admit you don’t fully understand? Assumed that if no one else is asking the question, that it means they get it, so if you ask, well, what does that say about you? What might others think?  

I certainly have. I think it is common for people to fear being judged or of being seen as inadequate in some way, especially in a group environment. Common enough that speakers or teachers often will encourage listeners or students to ask questions, specifically stating, “Chances are, if you have the question, someone else does as well.”

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus reveals something central to the understanding of His mission. Central, but not simple! He shares, "The Son of Man is to be handed over to men, and they will kill Him, and three days after His death, He will rise" (Mk 9:31). Jesus shares that He is not just a prophet or a miracle worker, but the Messiah who will endure the ultimate sacrifice for the salvation of humanity.

We then receive this wonderfully human description of the disciples: “But they did not understand the saying, and they were afraid to question him” (Mk 9:32). The disciples were too afraid to admit they did not understand. What were they afraid of? Were they afraid that they were the only ones who didn’t understand? Who did they think would judge them—the other disciples? Jesus? I think they worried that admitting their lack of understanding would make them appear unworthy, inadequate in their role as followers of Christ. Perhaps they even feared they would be abandoned by their group, or even by Jesus.

But Jesus never abandons us. And Jesus never punishes us for an open heart but lack of understanding. The disciples are faithful, willing followers—they simply are not yet ready to fully understand. Jesus knows this. And He does not belittle them or cast them out or lecture them the whole journey to try and force the learning. Instead, we learn that during their travels, the disciples discussed and argued amongst themselves about who was the greatest. It is not until they arrive at Capernaum and are “inside the house”—somewhere where they could rest and presumably felt “safe”—that Jesus offers a teaching moment to them. I think Jesus knew their insecurities and knew they didn’t fully understand His teachings. But instead of judging them for it or admonishing them, He waited until they were in a state where they could better receive the teachings. Here Jesus shares a countercultural teaching: “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all” (Mk 9:35). To drive this home, He brings a child into their midst. In His time, children were considered the least important, but Jesus uses them to teach that true greatness isn’t about being in charge or having power. It’s about being humble, simple, and ready to serve others.

While there are many important teachings in this Gospel, what I am most drawn to today is the example of the disciples. We, as faithful followers of Christ, are called to be missionary disciples. But just as we learn in today’s Gospel, that does not mean we are expected to fully and perfectly understand every aspect of Christ’s teachings. It’s okay if we get something wrong or if we don’t fully grasp the meaning in every Gospel. It’s okay if we realize we have been too focused on superficial measures of success or status. It’s okay if, when we examine our lives and priorities, we realize we have more room for humility and selfless service than we initially thought. We can still experience and share the love of Christ. We can still serve as Christ’s disciples. When you know better, you do better. Thanks to the grace of God, it is never too late to turn to Him and grow deeper in your faith.

But don’t be afraid to bring your questions to Jesus. I’m sure He’s heard them all!