Wednesday of the Fifth Sunday in Lent

Read Matthew 20:20–28

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My sons have followed Jesus since the beginning of his ministry. They say Jesus rewards people’s bold faith. So I decided to take matters into my own hands. I approached Jesus with James, John, and my request for their leadership. I mean, they’re his closest friends. They even met Moses and Elijah! If anyone deserves to have positions of power in the Messiah’s kingdom, it’s my boys. The other disciples were furious, but had they thought to ask?

Jesus offered a puzzling answer: It wasn’t up to him to decide. He said our priorities were skewed — power wasn’t to be seized, but instead used in serving others. He asked my sons if they could “share his cup,” and even though they said yes, I can’t shake the feeling that its dregs are going to be bitter.

Jesus, make our faith both bold and humble; help us use it in service to you and your people.

Text by Jodi Craiglow

Video from First United Presbyterian Church of Belleville, IL