Be Imitators of Me as I Imitate Christ

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Lev 13:1-2, 44-46/1Cor 10:31-11:1/Mk 1:40-45

Why do we seek Jesus? That question came to mind after reading the Gospel, where despite the request from Jesus to not tell anyone of his miraculous healing, the leper who was made clean proclaims this miracle to all. Having done that, Jesus cannot enter a town openly, for people flock from all over to have an encounter with Him.

Back to my question: Do I seek Jesus because of what He can do for me or do I seek Jesus because I want to be with Him for all eternity? In essence, who is Jesus to me: Santa or Savior?

St. Paul gives us the insights in his first letter to the Corinthians. Written around 50 AD, Corinth was a seaport at the crossroads of trade routes. This brought not only prosperity to the area, but also many vehicles for sin—moral depravity, prostitution, pagan cults—in short it was a culture very much like the one we live in today. Our moral compass is awry, we follow the gods of money, fame, fortune, good looks, and a myriad of other paths to happiness that only lead to destruction. One run through the TV offerings or a cruise through the newspapers and Internet confirms this!

The great evangelist, rather than painting a picture of doom and gloom, however, encourages the fledgling community of faith. “Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.” He also reminds them to “Avoid giving offense, whether to the Jews of Greeks or the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in every way, not seeking my own benefit but that of the many, that they may be saved. Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.”

Jesus did not promise His disciples an easy life. One look at the cross tells us that. What He did promise, however, is that He would never leave us orphans and that He would make us complete. He heals our imperfections and draws us, as we grow in holiness and virtue, into His heavenly home.

Thing is, Christianity isn’t a game of every man (or woman) for himself (or herself). Our salvation depends on how we live and love. We must live as models of Christ in this world, thus drawing others to Him. We are not to give offense—but at the same time—we are to always give glory to God. Our every action then must be a prayer of praise and thanksgiving. Our every action towards others must be one of love—as God defines it—unconditional and merciful, not selfish and self-centered. The result of living such a virtuous life is joy, peace, and the other fruits of the Spirit. As people draw close, intrigued by what it is that brings us such happiness, we can begin sharing the relationship we have with Christ with them. It is through this personal witness that others come to know Jesus in an intimate way as Savior and giver of eternal life, rather than a quick fix to this minute’s problems on the road of life.

When we take another look at the readings we need to ask ourselves, “Who are the lepers in our society? Who are the outcasts that cry out for compassion and love?” Blessed Teresa of Calcutta reminds us that we are to find Jesus in His most distressing disguise and love Him. It is as simple as that. Love Jesus forsaken in the world. We are called to seek not our own benefit, but that of the many, so that they may be saved. When we do this, we become a living Sacrament—the outward sign of Christ in this world, passing on the message of His love, hope, and grace.