March 30 | Matthew 20:17-28
DAILY READING
Matthew 20:17-28
REFLECTION
There is No Crown Without a Cross
by Judy Webb
Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Jesus with her sons and, kneeling down, asked a favor of him. “What is it you want?” he asked. She said, “Grant that one of these two sons of mine may sit at your right and the other at your left in your kingdom.” (Matthew 20:20-21)
Oh, how human were the followers of Jesus! All these months Jesus has been traveling with them, teaching about the Kingdom of God. He spent countless hours preparing them for the suffering ahead and they are still thinking of themselves. They don’t get it. They don’t understand the magnitude of the earthquake about to shake their very lives.
Does this resonate? Are we reminded of our own selfish attitudes, or own failings as humble followers and servants during this Lenten season? Do we understand this prideful behavior, this desire to be recognized and even lifted up as an example of one who deserves special treatment and recognition for our faith? As we travel the path of Jesus’ suffering and death, are we starting to understand any of it? I know there are days when I do get it; and then there are times when it again becomes all about me.
“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool." (Isaiah 1:18)
How often do we look back and cringe upon realizing how unloving our actions were? How many times have we wished for a do-over; a chance to go back and change our reactions and our words? Thank God for His forgiveness. Thank God that though we might sin and wallow in the mud of or our wicked ways, we can be washed clean again by the Blood of Jesus.
PRAYER
Dear Jesus, the season of Lent is all about you and your servant heart. You have loved us when we didn't deserve to be loved. You forgive and give us peace when we are at our worst, once we pray and ask. Thank you for this exciting time, for this opportunity to meet with you at the foot of the Cross. Amen.
