October 21, 2018: 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time

James and John request that Jesus grant them privileged positions in glory.  But Jesus set the record straight with them, and then the rest of the disciples, indicating that it's not so much about glory as it is about accomplishing God's purposes.  Jesus sets an example as One Who gives His Life in service to others, by which He effects so great and glorious a salvation for us, as stated so powerfully in the final sentence in the Gospel reading.

And in following this way, we give ourselves in service to others, because in Christ, that is now our purpose.

It was notable that Confirmation Masses were held this weekend at Ascension on the Feast of St. Paul of the Cross, who was devoted to the Passion of Christ.  The Confirmation candidates were called upon to live out their faith in the power of the Holy Spirit that comes as a result of the Paschal Mystery, in which Christ sets us an example for giving of ourselves, which we do as we live out faith.