True discipleship is not about status but rather humble joy
by Sister Elise Cholewinski
Many years ago a priest asked me a question that I have not forgotten. “Aren’t you happy simply to be of service in the Church?” It was at a time when I was struggling with the issue of self-esteem and comparing myself with others. Looking back a long time afterward, having directed parish religious education programs, given presentations for the diocese, and traveled to several places around the country to direct retreats, I can honestly say that some of my happiest years were teaching third- and fourth-grade children in a small parish school. The situation in the school challenged me to use my creative energy in ways I had never done before. Those were some of my most memorable years of ministry.
This Sunday’s readings focus on the topic of living with a humble disposition. In the third chapter from the Book of Sirach we are told to conduct our affairs with humility, and to humble ourselves, the greater we are. In Luke’s Gospel (14:1, 7-14) Jesus cautions us not to seek places of honor but to take the lowest place. These are powerful readings proclaimed in today’s culture that puts great emphasis on rivalry and competition, status and position. These readings challenge us to be humble enough to be who we are.
I am still a catechist, teaching religion to sixth graders on Wednesday evenings. Often, upon returning home to our convent after class, I stop in our chapel for a brief moment and say a short prayer. “Thank you, Lord Jesus, for calling me simply to be of service in your Church.”
Thank YOU, Elise, for answering that call so beautifully.