Life’s real success lies beyond the finish line
by Sister Ann Rehrauer
Two months ago, we were caught up in the excitement and national pride evoked by the 2024 Paris Olympics. None of us was among the young athletes who actually competed for medals, but we took vicarious pride and joy (and sometimes disappointment) in their success or defeat. Simone Biles' medals were our success, and the men’s relay team’s disqualification was also our heartbreak.
Those of us who were good sports also cheered for athletes from other nations, some of whom had never or rarely stood on the victory podium before – athletes from Ukraine and Botswana, St. Lucia and Cape Verde.
And those truly dedicated to the pursuit of excellence applauded swimmer Leon Marchand of France and Kaylia Nemour representing Algeria on the uneven bars -- even as they defeated our American favorites.
Competition (in athletics and life) brings out the best or the worst in us. It just depends ...
This week’s Scriptures invite us to reflect on what we strive for in this life, and how we define success.
The Book of Wisdom describes wicked people who can’t rejoice in the goodness of others, because they see others’ virtue as a threat or casting a negative reflection on their own inadequacy or acts of injustice.
St. James describes the actions of those who covet what they don’t have or who won’t work for what they want. Their greed or laziness leads to jealousy which often results in war and conflict.
And even the disciples in Sunday’s Gospel account experienced the natural but sometimes selfish tendency to want fame and power – even if it’s a “holy” aspiration seeking to be greatest in God’s Kingdom. While they envision this ultimate success – they have no idea what it will take to be “first.”
Striving for excellence is important. But if it’s only because I need to be the “greatest,” how do I regard or value everyone else?
Jesus is a good teacher who uses image and metaphor to help the disciples and us understand his message. He holds up the “servant” for us in Sunday’s Gospel as an example of the real winner among those who strive for holiness. The servant does his or her best, cares for others, makes life easier for someone else, and doesn’t do it just for recognition.
We’ve heard that the “last” will be “first” in the Kingdom. Being “last” in others’ estimation is not about false humility, not denying our talents or pretending we aren’t any good. It’s not about failing to try, just so others look better.
Servanthood is about striving for excellence in the right way, bringing others along with us on the road to success, and giving glory to God for the good and the success that rewards our efforts.
Perhaps this week, as we take stock of our progress on the spiritual journey, we can:
- Reflect on how we measure our success or failures and see if it’s the same standard God uses
- Affirm the efforts of someone at home or at work who doesn’t usually get recognized
- Put extra effort into our daily living and acts of charity so we have more to offer others and God
“Run so as to win the prize,” says St. Paul, but let’s makes sure it is for a gold medal that neither rust nor moth will consume. Then truly, where our treasure is, our heart will be.
Very thoughtful and useful advice for so many, including students and teams.