“If one of you wants to be first, he must be your slave – like the son of man,.....” (Mt 20:27, 28)

 “If one of you wants to be first, he must be your slave – like the son of man, who did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life to redeem many people.” (Mt 20:27, 28)

No mothers wish their children should go astray, be deviated, or become perverted. Rather they think all should grow in wisdom and stature like Jesus of Jesus Nazareth. Therefore, we find that children are often offered to God, dedicated to saints, are given names of saints by the parents. We also hear that mothers are very happy when their children very active in the church activities, pious associations, and catechetical programs. Hence, the request James’ mother cannot be considered something bad. Then why did Jesus react/respond to them like this? Mother’s request may be a harmless one, but if go to the previous chapter we find there disciples asking Jesus, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” (Mt 18:1) Therefore, the request is not a mere wish to be with the Lord, but an urge for power and position. Since the vocation/call itself is a blessing, then why so much crave for power and ambitions? The man, who was invited for a dinner, was advised to be in the last row that he may be invited to be in the front paddle and be honored before all the guests. Today, do we lose the conviction that our vocation itself is a gratuitous gift from the Lord? Compared to the priesthood I am in, all other positions, designations are nothing. Institutions, positions, authorities may make the religious and consecrated ones forget their real vocation. Let us also pray for those who are in positions that they may understand their power is only a gift from the Lord to serve their brethren.           

Take courage God is with you! Have a nice and blissful day….