Daily Reflections ...

Today’s Gospel presents James and John asking Jesus to agree to give them what they want without disclosing what it is they are after. Jesus responds by asking them ‘what is it that you want me to do for you?’ Unable to give them what they want, because the seats on his left and right in glory are not his to give, Jesus turns the tables on them and asks them to share the cup and baptism that he is about to undergo.

Every parent has been on the receiving end of such an open-ended request from a pleading child. Some parry it off, putting conditions on their response, such as, I will do it, only if it is good for you. Others might write a blank cheque, but not honour it because the request is too difficult, too expensive or inappropriate for the child’s age. Being honest with your child by asking them what it is they want, but not promising them that you can fulfil their desire may cause a tantrum, but like Jesus we need to guide them to choices that will be life-giving, even if they are challenging and not what they want to face.

The path of the disciple is not an easy one. It is a call to service and to lay down one’s life for others. Like James and John, we often seek the places of glory, but Jesus reminds us that there is no resurrection without the cross. Embracing the cup and baptism of Jesus is tantamount to writing a blank cheque with God, surrendering to his will and purpose for my life and trusting that God has my best interests at heart, even if I don’t see it.

By Mike Humphrys