And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came up to Him and said to Him, "Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask of You." And He said to them, "What do you want Me to do for you?" And they said to Him, "Grant us to sit, one at Your right hand and one at Your left, in Your glory." Jesus said to them, "You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the Baptism with which I am baptized?" And they said to Him, "We are able." And Jesus said to them, "The cup that I drink you will drink, and with the Baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized, but to sit at My right hand or at My left is not Mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared." (Mark 10:35-40)
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.
Today's Bible Readings: Leviticus 21-22 Mark 10:1-31
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