“Brothers and sisters…just as I try to please everyone in every way, not seeking my own benefit but that of the many, that they may be saved. Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (1 Cor. 10:31-11:1).
I remember years ago when I was promoted to my first managerial position. One of the first pieces of advice I received was to “get your team to work for you.” I asked, “How do I do that?” I was told it was simple. Get to know your people, their needs, and where they need your support for coaching. Seemed simple enough. The goal, after all, is to get the people that report to you promoted.
I know that is a different type of promotion than we are discussing in our Connecting Point question today, but there are some valuable lessons from that experience. First and most importantly, you need to get to know one another to have a relationship. Second, you need a relationship built on trust that allows for open dialogue.
“I do will it. Be made clean” (Mk. 1:41).
This Scripture from the Gospel talks about an encounter that Jesus had with a leper. We need to remember that leprosy was not only considered a disease but a ritual impurity–almost like a symbol of sin! Here, Jesus takes away the sin and reconciles the leper’s relationship with the community.
This is such a beautiful scene because it foreshadows Jesus’ own passion when he becomes a leper, made impure by our sins, and dies on the cross. He reconciles us with the Father. There’s that word–reconcile. In the Sacrament of Reconciliation, we receive the grace and “armor” we need to go out and spread the Good News. We know that the sins we commit distance ourselves from the Lord. Through the sacrament’s strength, we can promote Christ to our brothers and sisters.
How can I promote Christ instead of myself? By turning away from sin and longing to have a close relationship with the Lord. Through Reconciliation and prayer, we grow in our faith. Living as a witness to the Lord is then apparent to those around us. Making personal invitations and being joyful missionary disciples helps to “promote” Christ and be living proofs of his Goodness.
– John Kovacik, RCIA Coordinator