I wonder what James and John were imagining. A throne set up, maybe with lesser seats to either side? Surely they were looking for power and honor;—all the things that “glory” usually means.
But Jesus gave them a disturbing answer. He said, in effect, “Are you ready to suffer and die with Me?” Maybe they thought it was a kind of test. So they chorused, “Sure, we can!”
But I don’t think it was a test. I think it was a description of what Jesus’ glory is really like. He is the King of the universe;—who reigns from a cross. Those at His left and right hand are thieves and robbers, nailed up to die. Do you still want those places, guys?
For this is Jesus’ glory;—to obey the Father and save all humankind; to love us to the point of death and beyond; to take our place in the grave and raise us to share His everlasting life.
THE PRAYER: Jesus, thank You for loving us so much. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
* Did you ever ask for something and then you were sorry when you got it?
* What kind of “glory” are you chasing in your life?
* Which do you prefer to look at;—pictures of Jesus on a cross or on a throne? Why?
Lenten Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.