As we reflect back on this day, some 14 years ago the images are still so vivid. We also remember the humanitarian efforts that were shown by thousands of people in an effort to rescue their brothers and sisters. They were servants of the Lord. You might say they were the great ones of the day to actually put their lives in jeopardy.
If we want to have real greatness, not the kind the world gives, but the kind God recognizes we need to learn to serve.
Jesus said that he who seeks to be the greatest needs to become the last and must be the servant of all.
There are some who do not want to serve other people. They want to be served. They want someone to wait on them hand and foot.
We may look at servants as being available to our bidding. Someone who will take care of your wishes. But that is not what Jesus meant when he called himself a servant.
A true servant doesn’t necessarily give you what you want for the temporary pleasure of gratification you receive for the moment, but what you need for the joy that lasts for a lifetime.
In Sundays Gospel, Jesus asks the disciples, “who do people say that I am?” Peter responds by saying, “you are the Messiah.” He then goes on to say,” if you want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”
Following Christ is to devote your life to service. Serving others as Christ did.