Are we entitled or enlightened?

In today’s gospel, John is concerned about frauds performing signs in Jesus’ name. But his distress really comes from his own sense of entitlement. John believes the disciples are in charge of an exclusive group devoted to Jesus. He does not want to acknowledge an “outsider”. Jesus enlightens John: Christians are not meant to disparage the good works done by others.

God has a plan, and each of us has an important, unique role to play in it. It is not our job to direct others in their roles nor to elevate our role above that of someone else. Nor should we feel that God “owes us” for the work we do on His behalf. We are here to serve and to assist others in their service.

The first church in Jamestown was built in 1882, our current church was built in 1914, and it was named a basilica in 1989. Our current church is 107 years old, and it has served the community of Jamestown. Our parish is striving to be devoted to serving God. There is so much for which we are thankful. We have had many triumphs over the years. Yet we have had some failures, too. There have been times when we, like John, have let our own self-importance blind us to and scorn the good works of others. Let’s begin our 108th year with a prayer: O Lord, if a sense of entitlement has worked it’s way into our hearts, replace it with the enlightenment of Your love. Bless our wonderful community of Jamestown and allow us to continue to thrive—together—in service to You. Amen.