Greetings on this the Wednesday of the Second Week of Lent
Readings: Jeremiah 18:18-20; Psalm 31:5-6, 14, 15-16; Matthew 20:17-28
Summary
As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve [disciples] aside by themselves, and said to them on the way, “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death, and hand him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and scourged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day.” (Mt 20:17-19).
Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee approached him with her sons and did him homage, wishing to ask him for something. When the ten heard this, they became indignant at the two brothers. Whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave. f Just so, the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.”(Mt 20:20, 24, 27-28).
The gospel portion today takes us through the messianic mission at lightning speed!
It includes all aspects but the four principal ones are:
The prediction of Jesus.
The motherly request for her sons.
The indignation of the apostles.
The correction by Jesus.
Packed with all the themes of being a follower of Jesus.
Complete Self-giving.
Worry for the Kingdom (even when self-serving).
Filial corrections.
Return to humility and self-sacrifice.
Remember that I stood before you to speak on their behalf, to turn your wrath away from them (Jer 18:20b).
Reflection
As we encounter The Third Prediction of the Passion and The Request of James and John, we meet ourselves in the presence of Jesus.
Jesus is clear, we confuse.
Jesus is giving, we are cementing our position.
Jesus is engaging for lifting up, we chastise.
Jesus is returning to his purpose, we then adjust to serve as he did/does.
Personal Reflection
I think we make these round trips more frequently and just as quickly as the gospel presents it to us today. Rapid fire! Reactive! Judgmental!
Jesus says, slow down. Taking my chalice is a deliberate and contemplative movement. Self-interest is for salvation not acquisition. Service is for others.
Lord, when I am in rapid-fire mode… slow me down too!
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/030426.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry