Pray For A Servant's Heart During Lent

Glory to Jesus Christ! In today’s Gospel (Mark 10:32-45) and on the Fifth Sunday of the Great Fast, Jesus walks ahead of the disciples on the road to Jerusalem, fully aware of the suffering that awaits Him. He tells them plainly, “The Son of Man will be delivered… and they will mock Him… and kill Him; and after three days He will rise” (Mk 10:33–34). Yet even in this moment, James and John ask for positions of glory. Jesus gently redirects them to the true path of discipleship, the cup of sacrificial love.

The Lord responds, “Whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant… for the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mk 10:43–45). This is the heart of the Gospel and the heart of the Great Fast: greatness is found not in status, but in self‑giving love.

Today we also honor St. Mary of Egypt, whose life reveals the same truth. After years of sin, her encounter with the Theotokos led her to radical repentance. She allowed God’s mercy to reshape her life entirely, choosing a path of humility and holiness in the desert. Like Mary of Egypt, we are invited to let God’s grace transform us, moving from self‑seeking to Christ‑centered service.

Living the Gospel as Missionary Disciples

• Serve someone without being asked. Look for a simple act of kindness—help a coworker, visit someone lonely, or offer support quietly and without expectation.
• Seek reconciliation. St. Mary of Egypt’s life shows that no sin is stronger than God’s mercy. Reach out to someone you’ve avoided or make plans to receive the Mystery of Repentance before Pascha.
• Practice hidden generosity. Give alms or support a parish family in need—privately, without recognition. Let Christ alone see your gift.

Pray for a “servant’s heart.” Each morning this week, pray: “Lord Jesus, make me a servant today. Let me walk with You on the road to Jerusalem.”    

Bishop Robert Pipta presides over the Ruthenian Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Parma, Ohio.