This weekend we will read Mark 10:35-45. Just reading this passage made me think of the Pope’s recent visit to the United States. It is one of those passages from the New Testament which certainly has formed the Pope's pontificate.
With a touch of dramatic irony, James and John ask to be at Jesus' left and right in his glory. Jesus has just predicted his death for a third time. Mark gives not the slightest gap in the narrative before James and John begin their not too subtle grab for power. This is a helpful reminder of what we already know—Jesus will come into his glory on a hillside called Golgotha, the Place of the Skull. On his right and left will be thieves. After warning the brothers to be careful for what they wish, Jesus uses this moment to state clearly in words an approach he has made clear with his self-giving way of life: The path to greatness is the path of service. Care for others is paramount.
“That man wants me to lay hands on him and pray for him. What should I do?” he asked.
“What would our Lord do?” she asked in reply.
“I know what our Lord would do. I want to know what I am to do,” he stammered back.
“You want a medical answer, and I will not give you one,” the nun replied. “The man wants God’s healing touch. If you are a priest, you will do what your Lord would do. As you walk back over there, decide whether you intend to be a priest or not.”
But this passage is not limited to clergy. All of us are called to use the influence and power we are given to the glory of God and the building of His Kingdom. Each day we are faced with a decision. In the midst of our daily lives as parents, business men and women, friends and even strangers, we must decide in each situation whether we intend to be a Christian or not.
In Christ Jesus,
Father Mike