Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: July 25, 2024

Date: Feast of St. James the Apostle/Thursday in the 16th Week of Ordinary Time

Scripture Text:  Mt 20:20-28

The mother of the sons of Zebedee approached Jesus with her sons and did him homage, wishing to ask him for something. He said to her, "What do you wish?" She answered him, "Command that these two sons of mine sit, one at your right and the other at your left, in your Kingdom." Jesus said in reply, "You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?" They said to him, "We can." He replied, "My chalice you will indeed drink, but to sit at my right and at my left, this is not mine to give but is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father."

When the ten heard this, they became indignant at the two brothers. But Jesus summoned them and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and the great ones make their authority over them felt. But it shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave. 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."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

Today’s gospel text recalls the exchange between the mother of James, the apostle, and Jesus concerning bestowing prestige upon her sons and the conversation Jesus had with all the disciples after that. The bottom line of Jesus’ response and teaching for the disciples is that discipleship, following in the footsteps of our Savior, is a journey of service, not prestige.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Am I open to being a servant or do I expect prestige and honor as a reward for my discipleship?

Praying:

LORD, all glory and honor belong to You, LORD of all. May I this day and all days seek to serve You. May my words and works bring you glory and praise. Protect me from the earthly desires for prestige and gift my mind and heart with befitting and authentic humility so that I am open to serving You always and everywhere. Amen.