59 / 85
among the “greatest of the greats.” This helps me to be more forgiving of my-
self and the fact that sometimes I want to “be first” as my love of God compels
me to run toward the truth but this may not always be what God is asking of
me, sometimes it is just to be a
witness
to truth, sometimes it is more important
for whom I step aside.
Despite this being a rather short gospel, there is so much here to meditate
on and ponder, including the apparent importance of the placement of Christ’s
burial cloths. Of course, it being so close to Christmas, I can’t help but think of
baby Jesus’“swaddling clothes” and His being born in a cave in juxtaposition to
these burial cloths and His being buried in a rock-hewn tomb. But that is best
saved for another time as whole books have apparently been written about this
very thing. It never fails that Scripture calls me to a desire for deeper and deep-
er discovery of truth.
Prayer
Jesus, help me to be authentically humble in the challenges
of each day.Teach me what it means to be humble. Help me
to wait my turn to speak and to be at peace when others out-
shine me. Grant that I may listen with a spirit of objectivity
rather than an ‘I know it all’ attitude. Lord, grant that I not
only be content with who I am, but have confidence that
your grace can make me better! Help me to be obedient
without resentment and ready to doYourWill. I ask thatYou
make up for whatever I lack and increase those desires within
me that lead to true humility.Most of all, help me to believe
in your revelations, hope inYour word and love you more
than myself. Jesus, meek and humble of heart, make my
heart likeYours! Amen.
by Deacon Bill Steltemeier
_____
Mary Schimmoller
Holy FamilyVolunteer Coordinator