Word to the Wise
Saturday, July 25, 2015 - July 25 - St. James, Apostle
[2 Cor 4:7-15 and Matt 20:20-28]The mother of the sons of Zebedee approached Jesus with her sons and did him homage, wishing to ask him for something. He said to her, "What do you wish?" She answered him, "Command that these two sons of mine sit, one at your right hand and the other at your left, in your kingdom." [Matthew]
Is there ever any escape from power politics? This incident occurs toward the end of the Gospel of Matthew. Jesus has been preaching about the "kingdom of God" for some time. Yet, James and John (and probably the others) still think this will be like the political kingdoms around them, whether Roman or home-grown like Herod. Social status was indicated at meals by where one sat in relation to the host or at other events where one stood. (Note this the next time you see a photo of the president of the USA signing a piece of legislation!) James and John are trying to get in ahead of the others. We are told the other ten are indignant, but one wonders if this is because James and John made the attempt? In any case, Jesus speaks about how the "Lords of the Gentiles" act (which may have been what appealed to those two apostles) and how this "shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave."
Pope Francis has taken dead aim at this problem in the leadership of the church at the highest levels. However, his admonitions apply to any position of leadership in the church whether it be diocesan bishop, pastor, choir director or head usher. "Power corrupts," wrote Lord Acton, and he was referring to Pope Pius IX! If someone entrusted with a position of service in the church believes that this confers primarily the right to command others, then the position is compromised from the start. Jesus' admonitions should be read to everyone in a position of leadership in the church. AMEN
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