Mark 10:35-37 Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came over and spoke to him. “Teacher,” they said, “we want you to do us a favor.” “What is your request?” He asked. They replied, “When you sit on your glorious throne, we want to sit in places of honor next to you, one on your right and the other on your left.”
How like my children. As I spoke of what was to come in the next few days – my betrayal, my suffering and torture at the hands of the Romans, my crucifixion and death – as well as my return after three days in the tomb – as I was speaking of these things, my children were planning where they would sit when I return to my Father. They wanted to be sure that they would have places of honor and respect. They were not listening as I described the humiliation that I would suffer. They were not listening as I described the ultimate sacrifice I was about to make. They did not listen to me. They were busy thinking of themselves. They did not understand that real honor was reserved for those who sacrifice themselves for the sake of others. Real honor lies in one’s ability to put self aside for the greater good. They did not understand the importance – the vital importance – of obedience to the Father. They were too wrapped up in themselves. What do you honor? What do you believe is worthy of praise and honor? Living for one’s self, or living for others? And, how do you actually live? (2022)
Amanuensis 