PODCAST | Do Whatever He Tells You
In this reflection from Fr. Peter Armenio, priest of Opus Dei, we are invited to hear Mary’s words from the Wedding Feast of Cana, “Do whatever He tells you” (John 2:5), as our instructions to listen and respond to Jesus’s command given during the Last Supper.
“So when he had washed their feet [and] put his garments back on and reclined at table again, he said to them, “Do you realize what I have done for you? You call me ‘teacher’ and ‘master,’ and rightly so, for indeed I am. If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another’s feet. I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do” (John 13: 12-15).
After washing their feet, Jesus instructs his Apostles to follow his example by loving and serving each other. Referencing the lives of the saints, Fr. Peter explains that although we may not literally wash others’ feet, the attitude of service can always be present, especially in the way we interact with others. In order to grow in charity, we must begin by uniting ourselves with Jesus, the source of charity. Then can we examine ourselves: how can I show more affection, more joy, and more of a spirit of service in my daily life?
Rev. Peter Armenio
Rev. Peter V. Armenio was ordained a priest of the Prelature of Opus Dei in 1980. He is the author of several books published by Midwest Theological Forum, including Highlights of the Catholic Faith. He also served as President of the St. Josemaria Institute from 2006 to 2012. He has been working in campus ministry for the past 30 years and also preaches recollections and gives spiritual direction in Chicago.
