Give freely

May 30, Tuesday of the Eighth Week in Ordinary Time
Daily Readings: Sirach 35:1-12; Gospel: Mark 10: 28-31

"When we give with the right hand, don't let the left hand know; the left should not envy good deeds done with the right hand."

Many moral and courtesy teachings in Indonesian families teach about giving freely or for free. Those who have decided to provide do not have calculating thoughts or hope that the same person will replace them and reciprocate.

Giving and expecting a return is not the kind of goodness Jesus intended to teach. Giving and expecting salaries are referred to as investing and profit-seeking. This occurred to Peter as well.

Even as an average human being, Peter could not deny that when he was ready to follow Jesus, he hoped Jesus would be able to reward him appropriately.

By declaring, "We have given up all and followed you," Peter expressed his expectation that Jesus would repay or recompense him for his efforts. God, on the other hand, looked deep into man's heart. God knew the demonic spirit resided within Peter. Evil must be fought; God wishes to teach something to everybody facing the same situation via Peter.

God wants to show Peter that he doesn't have to worry about the recompense for the task entrusted to him by responding, "But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first." Then, being a radical disciple of Christ will not lead to a comfortable position or elevating oneself. But be ready to offer what God requests when God requests it.

Do excessive pride and arrogance frequently overpower us in this life due to the mission God has given us? Do we ever feel haughty because of our ministerial position?

Have we understood that God deserves all the honor for our services, sacrifices, and hard work? Everything we have is solely his. God bless.