Sunday Reflections: Jealousy and Competitiveness Ruins Relationships
“Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all” (Mark 9:35)
Sunday Reflections: Jealousy Ruins Relationships
Today’s readings give us a lot to think about, especially when it comes to how we treat each other. The messages from the readings in Wisdom, James, and Mark say a lot about jealousy and competitiveness.
Sunday Reflections: Faith Without Works is Dead
In the first reading from Wisdom, we hear about the righteous person being targeted because they stand up for what is right. The wicked people plot against them, testing their patience and faith. This shows us how jealousy can lead to harmful actions against others, simply because they possess qualities we admire or desire.
James, in the second reading, tells us plainly: “For where there is envy and selfish ambition, there will also be disorder and wickedness of every kind” (James 3:16). He warns us that these negative feelings can cause chaos in our lives and communities. Instead, he encourages us to seek wisdom that is pure, peaceable, gentle, and full of mercy.
Finally, in the Gospel of Mark, Jesus teaches his disciples a powerful lesson. They were arguing about who among them was the greatest. Jesus tells them, “Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all” (Mark 9:35).
Sunday Reflections: Jealousy Ruins Relationships
He uses a child to illustrate that true greatness comes from humility and serving others, not from competing for the top spot.
St. Thérèse of Lisieux also known as the Little Flower, once said, “The splendor of the rose and the whiteness of the lily do not rob the little violet of its scent nor the daisy of its simple charm. If every tiny flower wanted to be a rose, spring would lose its loveliness.” Thérèse reminds us that we each have our unique beauty and purpose. Jealousy and competition only rob us of appreciating our own gifts and those of others.
St. Teresa of Avila also said, “It is love alone that gives worth to all things.” Teresa knew that love, not competition, should be at the heart of our actions. When we act out of love, we build each other up rather than tearing each other down.
Sunday Reflections: Shepherding God's Flock
So, jealousy and competitiveness harm our relationships and communities. They create division and prevent us from seeing the true value in ourselves and others. Instead, let us strive to be humble, serve one another, and act out of love. By doing so, we can create a more peaceful and supportive world. Amen.
