Dear Marquette community:
As we prepare to enjoy Easter Weekend and Passover, my thoughts are drawn to a Gospel passage and the story of the “washing of the feet” at the Last Supper. In that scene, Jesus, the master and Lord, teaches his disciples that true leadership is expressed in self-giving service. Such leadership is not concerned about personal prestige and power, but about helping others to flourish and thrive in doing good.
That kind of leadership sets other free from fear, anger, resentment, ignorance, prejudice, abusiveness and despair. It is a service that liberates from what binds us.
But it is also a service that sets us free for trust, forgiveness, peace, reconciliation, creativity, purpose, community, healing and joy. It is a service that enhances the life of the whole person.
This Gospel passage invites us to take up such leadership, and rightly so. Today I invite you to consider those who have been such leaders for you in your life.
Remember the names, the faces, the voices and places where those leaders set you free from your bonds so that you could live your own life more fully.
Take time to dwell with these memories. Let them fill your heart. As we go forth on this Easter Weekend, let us do so with gratitude.
Peace and blessings,
Rev. Jim Voiss, S.J.
Vice President for Mission and Ministry