INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
We’re blessed by the evangelists’ refusal to disguise the frailties of Jesus’ hand-picked disciples.
Their proneness to ambition, denial and fear is plain for all to see and own. Recognising the cross-currents of our own desires, we aren’t surprised at their competitive hunger for power. But we’re shocked at what Luke reports later (22:24-27): they’re still disputing greatness after Jesus has enacted his self-sacrifice at the table of the last supper.
There’s a breath-taking contradiction between their divisive ambitions and the communion with Jesus into which they have been invited. James’ letter too brings home how much our own lives can be at odds with our professed faith. His remedy? Prayer that seeks wisdom and lets desires be purified.
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For all who exercise power at the expense of others, that they be converted to lives of servant leadership.
SAMPLE INTERCESSIONS
These intercessions are offered for selected use at Sunday Mass in the parish alongside those that express local needs and concerns.
PRESIDER
Dear friends, Jesus calls his followers to be servants of all. In that spirit let us pray for the needs of the world.
READER
For leaders in every sphere of public life, that they will put their power at the service of the common good. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For all earth’s peoples, that they will embrace the eco-conversion called for by Pope Francis for the life of the planet. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For peace-makers and aid-workers in places of chronic violence, that their selfless service will open pathways of hope, especially for women and children. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For all who suffer for their religious beliefs, that they will hold fast to their faith and find strength and life in it. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For the unsung heroes of the COVID pandemic, that their daily work of civic service will earn the gratitude of the whole community. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For those most vulnerable to the psychological and economic cost of the pandemic, that they will receive the support they need to cope. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For all who suffer from any form of dementia, that they will be cared for with much love and patience. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For our parish community, that it will be graced with a spirit of divine wisdom and heartfelt prayer. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For the recently deceased . . . and for those whose anniversary of death occurs around this time, that they will share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
PRESIDER
Holy God, your Son Jesus showed us the way of servanthood. Deliver us from ambition and confirm us in humble service. We ask this through Christ our Lord.