Exo. 12:1-8, 11-14; 1 Cor. 11:23-6; Jn. 13:1-15
Today's
Reading from the Gospel of John told us that during the Last Supper, Jesus did
something very unusual. He got on His knees and washed the feet of His
disciples. What tremendous humility we see in this act of Divine love. The
greatest Teacher of all times humbled Himself as a servant of His children. He
wanted to do something special by which He would be remembered.
When Peter protested against Jesus washing his feet, Jesus told him, "You do not know now what I am doing, but later you will understand." And when Jesus had finished washing the feet of the disciples, He said to them, "Do you know what I have done to
you? You call me Teacher and lord - and you are right, for that is what I am. So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you.”We
find in history that many great men have imitated this example of Jesus in
different ways. A touching incident from history that
exemplifies the great humility of a leader is the story of Mahatma Gandhi
washing the feet of untouchables.
In
1933, during a time of heightened tensions and societal divisions in India,
Gandhi undertook a significant act of humility and solidarity with the
oppressed. The caste system was deeply ingrained in Indian society, and in an
effort to challenge the oppressive caste system and promote the dignity of all
individuals, Gandhi decided to perform the traditional act of washing the feet
of untouchables. This act, known as "bhangi seva" or "safai
karmachari seva," symbolized the breaking down of social barriers and the
recognition of the inherent worth and equality of all human beings.
Another
example of a similar act is seen in the life of Emperor Akbar, who ruled the Mughal Empire in India during the
16th century. He was renowned for his wisdom, tolerance, and progressive
policies. Despite his exalted status as a powerful ruler, Akbar was known for
his humility and empathy towards his subjects.
One
day, as Emperor Akbar was taking a leisurely stroll through the streets of his
capital city, he noticed a pair of worn-out shoes left by the roadside.
Curious, Akbar inquired about the owner of the shoes and learned that they
belonged to a poor common man who earned his living through hard labor.
Feeling
a sense of compassion and solidarity with his subjects, Akbar decided to take
action. He ordered his attendants to find the owner of the shoes and bring him
to the royal court.
When
the humble man arrived, he was overwhelmed with trepidation at the prospect of
standing before the emperor. However, much to his surprise, Akbar did not
reprimand or scold him. Instead, the emperor knelt down before the man and
began to polish his shoes with his own hands.
The
courtiers and attendants were astounded by this display of humility from their
revered emperor. Akbar's actions spoke volumes about his empathy and concern
for the well-being of his people, regardless of their social status.
Through
this simple yet profound act, Emperor Akbar conveyed a powerful message to his
subjects: that true greatness lies not in the trappings of wealth and power,
but in acts of humility, compassion, and service to others.
The
virtue of humility transcends time and culture, a virtue that holds the power
to transform lives and communities. In a world often consumed by self-promotion
and ego, humility stands as a beacon of light, guiding us towards authentic
greatness and profound connection with others.
In
washing the feet of his disciples, Jesus shattered societal norms and
exemplified a radical form of humility. He taught us that true greatness lies
not in the pursuit of power or recognition but in the willingness to serve
others selflessly. As he declared in Matthew 23:11-12, "The greatest among
you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and
those who humble themselves will be exalted."
Throughout
his life, Jesus embodied the spirit of humility in various ways. Consider his
interactions with the marginalized and outcast—the lepers, the tax collectors,
the sinners. Despite his divine status, Jesus never hesitated to extend
compassion and grace to those society deemed unworthy. He saw beyond outward
appearances and recognized the inherent dignity and worth of every individual.
To
continue His mission on the earth Jesus instituted the Sacrament of Priesthood,
and to continue his presence on the earth He instituted the Sacrament of the
Eucharist.
The
dignity of priesthood is a sacred mantle passed down through generations, a
calling marked by devotion and service. In the Old Testament, we see profound
examples of this honor. From Aaron, the first high priest, ordained by God
Himself, to Melchizedek, who blessed Abraham, their roles exemplify the
sanctity of the priesthood. These figures served as intermediaries between
humanity and the divine, offering guidance, sacrifices, and blessings. Their
unwavering commitment to spiritual duty teaches us the profound significance of
priesthood, reminding us of the divine calling to uplift, guide, and serve our
communities with dignity and reverence.
In
the New Testament the priesthood serves as a vital continuation of Jesus'
mission on earth, carrying forward his teachings, ministry, and love to future
generations. As representatives of Christ, priests are called to embody his
compassion, humility, and selflessness in their service to others. Through the
sacraments, particularly the Eucharist and reconciliation, priests facilitate
encounters with the divine, offering spiritual nourishment and healing to the
faithful. They stand as mediators between God and humanity, guiding souls on
their journey of faith and offering support and guidance in times of joy and
sorrow. In a world often plagued by division and uncertainty, the priesthood
provides a beacon of hope and a reminder of God's enduring presence among us.
Let us honour and support our priests as they continue Jesus' mission of love,
reconciliation, and salvation, bringing light into the darkness and offering
solace to all who seek it.
This sacred privilege bestowed upon the priesthood is unparalleled, even among the angels. While angels are messengers of God and serve him faithfully, they do not have the power to consecrate the Eucharist. This extraordinary right to bear Jesus on their hands in the form of the Eucharist is a profound responsibility entrusted to priests alone. This unique role highlights the dignity and sanctity of the priesthood.
An
example of great self-sacrifice by a priest in contemporary history is the
story of Fr. Jacques Hamel. Fr. Hamel was a French Catholic priest who
was tragically killed in 2016 during a terrorist attack on his church in
St. Étienne-du-Rouvray, France.
During
morning Holy Mass, two attackers stormed into the church, wielding knives, and took
several hostages, including Fr. Hamel. Despite the danger, Fr. Hamel
remained steadfast in his faith and commitment to his congregation. He refused
to abandon his parishioners, even in the face of imminent danger.
Reports
from witnesses indicate that Fr. Hamel courageously tried to calm the
situation and protect his parishioners. Tragically, he was fatally stabbed by
the attackers while he was celebrating Holy Mass. His selfless act of sacrifice,
giving his life to protect his flock, exemplifies the highest ideals of
priesthood and serves as a testament to his unwavering devotion to his faith
and community.
Each
act of kindness, each word of encouragement, each gesture of love has the
potential to transform lives and bring healing to those in need. As we go forth
from this sacred gathering, let us carry with us the message of Jesus'
compassion and love, allowing it to permeate every aspect of our lives.
As
we journey forward, let us remember the words of St. Teresa of Calcutta:
"Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without
leaving happier." The celebration of Holy Week reminds us that we should be
vessels of God's love in a world in need of healing and redemption.
Satish