Word to the Wise
Thursday, July 25, 2013 - July 25 - St. James, Apostle
[2 Cor 4:7-15 and Matt 20:20-28]"Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?" They said to him, "We can." He replied, "My chalice you will indeed drink, but to sit at my right and at my left, this is not mine to give but is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father." When the ten heard this, they became indignant at the two brothers.
One of the experiences I dread the most is sitting at the head table at a dinner or banquet where one sits looking out over the rest of the attendees. However, for some folks it is the pinnacle of power! They like those "places of honor." This was true in Jesus' day and it is true in ours! The ambition shown by Mrs. Zebedee and her two sons, one of whom we celebrate today [James], would have been normal under ordinary circumstances, but Jesus was not preaching a "normal" kingdom! "Greatness" in the kingdom of God would not be determined by protocol but by service. This service would demand ultimate commitment - "drinking the cup."
Just before this scene, Jesus has predicted his suffering and death. That is the cup! He would become powerless in order to be ultimately powerful. The disciples had to learn this only gradually. One can pray that all those in "positions of power" - whether political or spiritual - would learn this lesson, but it will take a lot of praying! In the meantime, Jesus' advice on another occasion is a better guide - take the lower place! AMEN