In last weekend’s homily, Father reminded us to put Jesus first, especially during this Holy Week. Certainly good and appropriate advice, but on the surface, I couldn’t help but think to myself: Aren’t we doing that? I mean we’re here, gathered together in prayer at church. We likely plan to commemorate the upcoming events of the Last Supper, the Lord’s Passion, and the Resurrection of the Lord either together at a service or in other meaningful ways. But a little later, I gave his words more intentional thought and got a better idea of what Father meant. It wasn’t just a beneficial suggestion of faith to practice this week, it was a proposal for a way of life. So I asked myself again (and tried to be honest in my answer) – do I put Jesus first? Well, sure, sometimes; when it’s easy; when things are going pretty well; when I am thankful for the many blessings I have. But not so much when I’m frustrated with other drivers on the road; not when I feel like nothing is going right; not when I’m experiencing a loss. Though I certainly offer prayers of thanksgiving, and I seek the Lord’s comfort and guidance when I’m hurting and struggling, I don’t think that is the same as putting Him first in my plans, in my hopes, and even in my worries.
I admit I initially considered myself as being pretty good at putting Jesus first until I looked more closely. I love Him, I need Him, I go to Him, and He knows that about me. But as I reflect on my day or a specific situation or a challenge with a specific person, I see opportunities where I could do better, where putting Jesus first would bring about more peace in my heart and spirit.
How well do we put Jesus first? Truly putting Jesus first in all things and making it a way of life might take a little practice, and that’s okay. The Lord is patient, He waits for us, He loves us, and He responds to us. Holy Week seems a fitting opportunity to take Father’s suggestion and commit to working toward putting Jesus first more and more – in everyday things, in extraordinary things, in happy things, and in sad things. As we do experience the Last Supper, the Lord’s Passion, and the Resurrection of the Lord, let us pray that His selfless and complete love for us opens our hearts and leads us to a renewed spirit where He is first.
Put God first, and everything else will follow. (from Matt 6:33)
Journeying to Grace 