Wednesday of Holy Week

Readings of the Day

One of the darker sides of ministry that not many people talk about is the question, What’s in it for me? Whether that is taking on another speaking engagement or being asked to sit on another advisory board, there is usually some sort of incentive attached to ‘the ask’ in order to solidify our participation.  That question, What’s in it for me?  is the same question that Judas Iscariot asked in today’s gospel. Judas was so fixated on his incentive, 30 pieces of silver, that he did not second-guess betraying Jesus, his teacher and our Lord.  He could have changed his mind. He could have turned back and said no, he would not betray Jesus.  But instead, he put his own desires first, and ultimately, went through with his plan.

It is so easy to demonize Judas Iscariot, but haven’t we all asked that same question - What’s in it for me? - at one time or another? When have we put our own needs before another’s? We are all guilty of it.  But, we need to learn from Judas’ mistake and challenge ourselves to continually put other people’s needs before our own.  It is what all Christians are called to do, but especially ministers working in a parish, diocese or Catholic Charities agency.  The question should never be What’s in it for me?, but rather, What else can I do to assist my brother or sister in need?” And it is that question that is the true embodiment of servant leadership and what we see when Jesus washes the feet of the apostles, and ultimately, what we see when He gives up His life for us on Calvary.

Let us pray that we can always be a servant leader asking ourselves, What else can I do to assist my brother or sister in need? 

Catherine Orr is the coordinator for the Roundtable Association of Catholic Diocesan Social Action Directors and serves on the Catholic Charities USA PSM Leadership Team.

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