scrutinizing self-aholics
"The mother of Zebedee's sons came up to Him accompanied by her sons, to do Him homage and ask of Him a favor." —Matthew 20:20
As we enter more deeply into this Lent, Jesus asks us: "What is it you want?" (Mt 20:21) The desires of our hearts may be like those of the mother of Zebedee's sons (Mt 20:21). We may be thinking more about ourselves than God. During this Lent, Jesus tries to break the spell of self. He asks another question: "Can you drink of the cup I am to drink of?" (Mt 20:22) Jesus tries to change us from being self- seeking to cross-carrying.
Next Sunday, in many Catholic churches throughout the world, "the scrutinies" will take place. We will ask the Lord to scrutinize the hearts, motives, desires, and lives of those preparing to be baptized and/or enter the Catholic Church. Let's join with the catechumens and candidates by asking the Lord to scrutinize our own hearts. May God's word penetrate our inmost being, separate the good from the bad, judge the thoughts and reflections of our hearts, and purify us (Heb 4:12).
When Jesus asks us at Easter "What is it you want?", may we not be fixated on ourselves but focused on Him. May we want to give more than receive (Acts 20:35) and to serve more than be served (Mt 20:28). May we want the cross more than pleasure and Jesus more than heaven. May we want what He wants.
Prayer: Father, give me the desires of Your heart.
Promise: "Anyone among you who aspires to greatness must serve the rest, and whoever wants to rank first among you must serve the needs of all." —Mt 20:26-27
Praise: Mike and Maryann suffered through many unhappy years of marriage. Finally, Maryann left him. Jesus changed their hearts and brought them back together with a commitment to pray together. Now they minister to married couples in retreats.
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Ralph J. Lawrence, August 1, 1996
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, August 6, 1996