Jeremiah 18:18-20
Matthew 20:16-28
Traditionally, in the weekdays of Lent, Wednesdays and Fridays are days of special focus on Christ’s passion. Today that focus is very clear. As Jesus journeys to Jerusalem he warns the disciples of the events that will unfold. He has taken the path to suffering. Quite naturally, this is beyond the comprehension of the disciples.
‘Promise that these two sons of mine may sit one at your right hand and the other at your left in your kingdom.’
That the mother of Zebedee’s sons makes a request of Jesus for special positions for her sons has always struck me as very human. As the readers we have the privilege of seeing beyond her question. Her seemingly simple request points me to those times in my life when I haven’t been able to see the whole picture and my motivations have been confused.
In the language of servant, slave and ransom we are invited today to inner conversion. This necessarily involves an awareness of the needs of others and a spirit of willing service.
The capacity to serve is given to all of us in baptism when we share in Christ’s anointing as Priest, Prophet and King. We can be quite certain that at some point in our lives we will be called to draw upon this very specific grace of baptism.
How is Christ calling you to serve today?