U Ready to Rumble?

Today's Readings

"Just so, the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.” - Matthew 20:28

In today's readings, Jesus, in so many words, echoes the now famous phrase, "Are you ready to rumble?" he lays out the reality that suffering is on the horizon, and that things are going to get tougher before they get easier. The initial response to his motivational, but realistic prediction was probably a tad disappointing to our Lord as the mother of disciples James and John stepped forward to say, “Command that these two sons of mine sit, one at your right and the other at your left, in your kingdom.”

"Whaaa?  Mom!   I'm sorry!  What my Mom meant to say was..."

Jesus, and the disciples were facing a similar effort that had been repeated many times before.  Factions were plotting against them, and it was obvious enough that Jesus had to speak to it, to reassure the twelve that all would be well.  They must have been a little nervous, like Jeremiah in the first reading today, "Heed me, O LORD, and listen to what my adversaries say. Must good be repaid with evil that they should dig a pit to take my life? Remember that I stood before you to speak in their behalf, to turn away your wrath from them." (Jeremiah 18: 19-20)

Now every good son loves his mother, but there are times when a Mom is not supposed to speak on their Son's behalf... This might be one of those times. James and John, while nervous at the potential results of heading into Jerusalem, were not the one's worried about where they were to sit.  Their mother's concern, however, was fair as she worried for their lives.  Jesus handles the request like a pro, stating that we all have our chalice to drink from, or our cross to bear, and that no matter where we sit, the task at hand is to SERVE those in need, even if it means we suffer!

Today, in our own Lenten journey, are we willing to suffer, and work harder than ever before to reach our goals?  Are we willing to serve, rather than be served?  Are we willing to forfeit the comfort of knowing all the answers, placing our trust in God?

I'm ready to rumble!

"It's OK Mom, try not to worry (although I kinda love it that you do)... I'll be fine!  Thanks for loving me!"