Readings: 2 Corinthians 4:7-15, Ps. 126:1-6, Matthew 20:20-28
“You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink?” (Matthew 20:22)
As we celebrate the feast of St. James today, we are drawn to reflect on the remarkable personality of this great apostle who shed his blood for the sake of the faith. It so turned out that amongst the apostles of Jesus, James was the first to die a martyr’s death under the sword of Herod.
- In today’s Gospel passage, we see the mother of James and John presenting her sons before Jesus, saying, “Please permit these two sons of mine to sit one at your left and the other at your right hand.” At first glance, it looks like it is just the mother’s sole request. But when Jesus asks, “Can you drink from the cup? (suffering, persecution, hardship, etc. that would follow), it was not the mother who responded. James and John answered: “Yes, we can!”
- Jesus said: “Yes, you will drink of the cup, but as for seats at my right and left, they belong to those for whom my Father has prepared it.” This scenario speaks volumes about prayer and God’s responses to us. Whenever we go to Jesus to ask for something, we are praying, and like James and John, there are times our prayers are not answered, not because God is incapable of granting our request, but because that which we ask for is not meant for us.
- It is okay to be ambitious. It is a good thing to aspire to become the Head of your organisation, the Chairman of your community, the President of your group, the CEO of your company, the Bishop, etc. You may be ready to do anything, even to shed your blood like James and John, but you must remember that it is not your ambition or your effort that will get you what you want but the will of God.
- It is interesting to note that despite turning down their request, James and John did not resign from the company of the twelve apostles. They went everywhere, drank the cup, and spread the message with their lives and blood. Do not live your life only for the sake of rewards. Just do what is right, and you will find inner peace and happiness.
- Finally, as St. Paul says in the first reading, let nothing discourage you. Not even the fact that your prayers are not granted for “we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.” (2 Corinthians 4:8-9).
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, if it is your will, grant us our hearts’ desires, take our crosses away, not as we want, but let your will be done. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saint James, Apostle - Feast. Bible Study: 2 Corinthians 4:7-15, Ps. 126:1-6, Matthew 20:20-28).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu