SERVING THE NEED
It is helpful to listen to our Gospel in light of the first reading, for both speak of service. The Gospel speaks of the contrast between those who serve and those who simply have authority, but our first reading gives a hint as to the difference:
The will of the LORD shall be accomplished through him. Because of his affliction, he shall see the light in fullness of days; through his suffering, my servant shall justify many, and their guilt he shall bear.
First, we need to be clear that a person serves as a response to a particular need. Thus we have to be clear on the need, otherwise we simply act with a kind authority. So what is that need? The will of Lord – to proclaim the Kingdom of God. To heal the sick, to free the captives, to bring hope to those who have none, to announce the favor – the mercy – of God. . . that their suffering now has meaning. That there can be joy because their sufferings have no become the path to their redemption – a path to their joy. That is the need.