Fr. Frank Majka, SJ – The Bridge

Influence and Power

Influence and power — the two aren’t the same. Some very influential people weren’t powerful. Think of Einstein or Mother Theresa. Conversely, some very powerful people didn’t have a very deep or lasting influence. Think of the politicians (presidents and monarchs, even) who left only faint marks on history.

Jesus never claimed power for himself but called himself a servant instead. And he said that he wanted his followers to act like servants, not rulers. Remember the scene at the Last Supper. There Jesus washed his disciples’ feet and told them that he’d given them an example of how they should be.

On the other hand, he certainly believed that his own teachings and actions would be very influential, as would those of his followers. He told them, in fact, to think of themselves as the light of the world and salt of the earth. He let them know that through their efforts and God’s help the world could become more like the Kingdom of God.

As you think about it, would you rather be powerful or influential? Furthermore, some people say that institutions often lean towards power rather than service or influence. Do you agree?