Saint James, Apostle – Feast 

2 Corinthians 4:7-15
Psalm 125(126):1-6
Matthew 20:20-28

WHAT ARE YOUR ASPIRATIONS IN SEEKING FOR AN AUTHORITATIVE POSITION?

Today the Church celebrates Saint James the brother of St John. He was one of the witnesses of the Transfiguration. He was the first of the apostles to be martyred, being beheaded by King Herod Agrippa I to please the Jewish opponents of Christianity.

The contemporary pursuit of power is evident in society, mirroring the biblical account in today’s gospel of James and John’s mother seeking prestigious positions for her sons in Jesus’ kingdom.

This desire for power persisted despite Jesus’ warning about his impending suffering and death.Similarly, today, the craving for power prevails, highlighting the urgent need for societal transformation. The incessant striving for dominance and superiority underscores the prevalent societal shortcomings.

Upon learning of the request, the other ten disciples expressed their discontent, potentially misconstruing Jesus’ teachings about the Kingdom as a realm of personal exaltation.In response, Jesus emphasized that true greatness derives from selfless service, aptly demonstrated by his own sacrificial life.

Authentic authority originates from God, and its righteous application is divinely ordained. Consequently, our usage of power and authority is subject to God’s guidance.

Irrespective of individual perceptions of power, we are exhorted to emulate Jesus’ humility and servanthood. As leaders, the unmerited quest for status or detracting from others’ standing contradicts this principle. While ambition can be noble if grounded in service to others.

Our strength and resilience are divinely facilitated. Endurance, faith, hope, and love pave the path to eternal life, mirroring Jesus’ steadfastness in the face of rejection. Disengaging from disingenuous individuals fosters inner tranquility.

Fr Joseph Osho