SERVANT LEADERSHIP: A GOSPEL CHALLENGE

 

Homily for the Thirty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year A

Fr. Ugochukwu Ugwoke, ISch

Scriptural Texts: Malachi 1:14b–2:2b, 8-10, 1 Thessalonians 2:7b-9, 13, Matthew 23:1-12

 

The readings of this 31^st Sunday in Ordinary Time invite us to reflect on a theme that resonates deeply with our human experience: authority and leadership. We live in a world where leadership often equates to power, prestige, and control. However, the Scriptures offer a different perspective, one that challenges our conventional notions of leadership and authority especially within the community of believers.

In the first reading, the prophet Malachi criticizes the priests of his time for offering blemished sacrifices and for not showing proper reverence for the Lord (Malachi 1:14). He underscores the gravity of their leadership role within the faith community. The prophet reminds us that those called to lead and serve in the Church, whether as clergy or laity, bear a great responsibility. They are called to offer the best of themselves to God and to lead by example, showing a deep reverence for the sacred. As we contemplate this, we should ask ourselves how we, in our various roles within the Church, contribute to its sanctity.

The psalmist’s words resonate with a spirit of humility. “Lord, I am not proud,” the psalmist proclaims (Psalm 131:1). Humility is a virtue that underpins genuine leadership and service in the Church. It reminds us to acknowledge our limitations and to rely on God’s grace. True leaders are not driven by pride or self-interest but seek to lead with a heart of service, just as our Lord Jesus did. In a world that often elevates the proud and the powerful, this psalm reminds us that true leadership begins with humility and self-awareness. To lead as Christ did is to embrace the humility of a servant.

St. Paul’s message to the Thessalonians in the second reading underscores the authentic nature of his ministry. He describes the care and tenderness with which he and his companions shared the Gospel. The reading highlights the importance of sincerity and love in leadership and service. It reminds us that our service within the Church should be motivated by a deep love for God and for his people. Our actions should align with our words, and our leadership should be marked by genuine care for the spiritual well-being of others (1 Thessalonians 2:7-13). True authority is not about control; it is about care. It is about using our influence to uplift and empower those we serve.

In the gospel passage, Jesus critiques the scribes and Pharisees for their hypocrisy. He acknowledges their role as interpreters of the law but criticizes them for not practicing what they preach. The core message is that authentic leadership is not about seeking recognition or honor but about humbly serving others. Jesus goes on to teach that “the greatest among you must be your servant.” He underscores that leadership in the Christian community is a call to service, not a position of prestige (Matthew 23:1-12). In a world marked by power struggles and authoritarianism, the Gospel message calls us to a different form of leadership, one rooted in service, love, and humility. It challenges us to reevaluate our understanding of authority and leadership. To lead as Christ did is to serve others with a heart full of love, putting their needs before our own.

As we reflect on these readings, we are challenged to examine our own roles within the Church. Are we authentic leaders, serving with humility and sincerity, or are we driven by self-interest and pride? Let us remember that true leadership is not about titles or positions; it is about being a servant, just as Jesus, our ultimate model of leadership, demonstrated. We are called to serve with love and authenticity, always striving to honor God through our actions. This is the path to true greatness in the eyes of the Lord. May God bless you all.