GROW: Our world lays down rules for greatness: wealth, accomplishment in the performing arts, beauty, business acumen. Hmmm. I don’t recall hearing any of these attributes in the Scripture passages today. What I do remember is Jesus saying that whatever authority the disciples exercise must be rendered as service rather than for personal gain: “Whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant.”

GROW: All this talk about wisdom in today’s readings ... why should we care? Born of a familiarity with the heart of God, wisdom is a virtue that grants us discernment to know right from wrong and to follow God’s plan. It is so important to the life of the disciple that it is a gift given to us by the Holy Spirit.

GROW: Everything in God’s creation is intended to reflect his goodness and proclaim his glory. It’s not hard to understand this idea when we behold the majesty of the sea. It can be more difficult, however, to remember this is also present in each of us and in our relationships – including that relationship God designed for man and woman: marriage. Our ability to turn away from God means that we sometimes reject, rather than reflect, him.