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.