More Than a Title

Memorial of the Seven Holy Founders of the Servants of Mary

Presidents Day

Mark 8:11-13

When George Washington died in 1799, he was almost universally mourned. A hero of the Revolutionary War and our first President, within a year he was honored with a national holiday on his birthday, February 22. When Congress passed the Uniform Federal Holidays Act in 1971, this annual commemoration was moved to the third Monday of February and today includes Abraham Lincoln (February 12) and others who have served in our nation’s highest office.

Like all heroes, Washington had his flaws and sins. As a military leader, he made his share of mistakes. He was also a slave owner, though in his last will and testament he ordered them freed upon the death of his wife, Martha, who died two years after him. He once said, “Remember, it is the actions, not the commission, that make the officer, and that there is more expected from him, than the title.”

Jesus was revered by many as a prophet and perhaps even the awaited Messiah. The Pharisees and others were suspicious of him, especially when he challenged their authority and teachings. They demanded a sign from him to prove his legitimacy. Jesus did not seek the titles of prophet or Messiah, and he refused to provide signs on demand. Instead, he showed people by his wisdom, compassion, courage and the miracles of healing that he did out of those virtues. The greatest testament to his leadership was also the moment of his greatest shame and suffering: the cross. His leadership demanded everything of him, and he freely gave it in love.

Centuries later, a group of merchants in Italy were inspired by this example of leadership and founded the Servants of Mary or the Servite Order. They combined a life of monastic simplicity and prayer and an active apostolate.  Through their prayers, may we also creatively respond to the signs of our times and follow Jesus in the ways that the world and the Church need today. –jc