The Holy Venerable-Martyr Dometius. Post-feast of the Transfiguration.
Dormition Fast.
1 Corinthians 14:6-19; Matthew 20:17-28.
Read Matthew 20:17-28
It’s said that when General George Washington came upon a group of soldiers struggling to lift a heavy beam, he noticed their officer standing aside, barking orders as an owner to a mangy dog. Washington dismounted his horse, joined the men, and helped lift the heavy beam into place. Somewhat annoyed, the officer asked who he was speaking to—only to discover it was the Commander-in-Chief himself. If a man of such stature could stoop to serve without hesitation, surely I can serve those around me today.
Matthew 20:20–28 gives us a similar image—but infinitely more profound. When the mother of James and John asks Jesus to seat her sons at His right and left in His kingdom, Jesus redirects their ambition. “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant,” He says. Jesus, knowing He is headed toward the cross, reminds them—and us—that true greatness in the Kingdom of God is marked not by position or power but by humility and sacrifice.
This is radical. In a world that idolizes status and self-promotion, Christ calls us to a different kind of leadership—one shaped by kneeling, not climbing. The King of Kings did not come to be served but to serve, and to give His life for others.
So today, when I’m tempted to think certain tasks are beneath me—or to chase recognition—I remember not so much men like Washington under the beam, but Jesus the Lord washing feet. If they could do that, how much more should I embrace a posture of service?
To follow Christ is to lead by lowering ourselves. On our knees is where we rise to greatness.