Wednesday, March 3, 2010

"Are you able to drink the cup that I am to drink?"

Today's Readings

On their way to Jerusalem, where he was to suffer, Jesus told the apostles in detail what awaited him there. It was not a message they wanted to hear. Their minds were fixed on dreams of wealth and glory.

The mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came with her sons to ask Jesus for the top places in his kingdom. Jesus treated this outrageous request gently, asking the sons whether they were able to drink his cup of suffering. They replied that they could. He told them they would, but that the places of honor were allocated by his Father. He went on to tell them that authority in his kingdom was a service, not an opportunity for greed.

Later, these two apostles served the community and drank the cup of suffering. They had learned the lesson. Do we?

"Lord Jesus, make me a servant of love for your kingdom, that I may seek to serve rather than be served. Inflame my heart with love that I may give generously and serve others joyfully for your sake."

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