Gospel Exercises — Volume II · Exercise 3 of 12

Glory and the Temptation to Be Exceptional

Before you begin: Please read the Introduction — How to Practice the Gospel Exercises

Reflection on Matthew 23:5–7; John 13:6–9; John 13:14–16; John 14:22–23

Prayer

Lord, free me from the desire to be exceptional when I seek my own standing rather than You. Reveal to me all the ways in which I seek glory, whether in spiritual matters or in everyday life. Give me a heart that seeks to make room for Your presence rather than gain recognition for itself, and the ability to receive what You offer me.

Amen.

Reflection

When Jesus washes His disciples' feet, He shows them what God's glory looks like. The Lord and Teacher stoops down. The One to whom everything belongs takes the posture of a servant. Glory in God's kingdom consists not in standing above others, but in love that gives itself.

In John 14:22–23, Judas—not Iscariot—asks Jesus why He intends to reveal Himself only to the disciples and not to the world. In this question too, we may sense a desire for a visible manifestation of God's power. We would like God to reveal Himself in a way that is clear and convincing to everyone and draws their admiration. Jesus, however, answers differently. He speaks of love and of keeping His word. God comes where a person loves Him and remains faithful to Him.

The Desire for Glory Also Hides in Piety

In Matthew 23:5–7, Jesus speaks of Pharisees who broaden their phylacteries, seek places of honor, and have people address them by titles. Outwardly, they do devout things. The problem is not prayer, knowledge of Scripture, or service. The problem is the desire to be seen and recognized.

We too can fashion our own “phylacteries.” These may take the form of an expressive way of praying, knowledge of Scripture, a role in the community, or the way we speak about our faith. None of these things need be wrong. Yet when they become a way of building our own image, we cease to seek Christ through them.

This desire is not confined to spiritual life. It can also govern our work, relationships, and everyday decisions. We want others to notice and admire us, and we do not want to appear to have failed. Then damage to our reputation hurts us more than the fact that we have hurt someone. Hidden faithfulness loses its attraction because it brings us no recognition.

Christ Teaches Us to Receive as Well as Serve

Peter refuses to let Jesus wash his feet. He says, “You will never wash my feet.” This may sound like reverence, but Jesus shows him that unless he receives His service, he can have no share with Him. Peter must allow himself to be washed. He must accept that he depends on Christ.

We too often prefer serving to receiving. Accepting help, forgiveness, or another person's care can put us in a position we find uncomfortable. We would like to remain in control and continue to be the ones who give. Jesus teaches us, however, that humility means more than serving. It also means receiving the love that God and others offer us.

Spiritual glory without service is a deception. We may desire to be the ones who know more, are closer to God, or lead others. Yet if this desire does not become love, we are merely building a spiritual image of ourselves. Christ leads us along another path. Closeness to God comes not through special status, but through obedient love. Where a person keeps His word, God dwells.

Discernment

Let us consider whether, in service, prayer, sharing our faith, or community life, we seek recognition more than Christ. Does it hurt us when no one notices us? Are we dissatisfied when we serve unseen? Do we want others to see us as spiritual, mature, or exceptional?

Let us also look at the ordinary areas of life. Are our decisions at work, in relationships, and in our hobbies guided by faithfulness, or rather by the desire for recognition and a good image?

Let us also notice whether we can receive what God offers us. Would we rather serve God than allow Him to serve us? Can we accept help, forgiveness, or care from others without feeling humiliated?

Resolution

During the coming week, let us do one concrete act of service in such a way that no one needs to know about it. Let us not talk about it or use it to build a spiritual image of ourselves.

At the same time, let us consciously accept something someone offers us. It may be help, attention, encouragement, or a small act of service. Let us try not to refuse it out of politeness or a need to remain independent.

Prayer

Our Father…