I don't know why, but in the Gospel I totally picture some parents when it comes to their kids at sporting events! How often do you see that mother or father go up to the coach with their children and ask that they play more or play a more prominent position?
It is not always just a matter of the kids not having enough talent, but often they didn't put in the same work and dedication. They did't practice hard enough or put in the effort needed to play more. They didn't see and understand what some others were doing behind the scenes to improve and get better.
In this Gospel a mother actually goes up to Jesus and asks for her sons to sit at the right and left of Him in His kingdom. This is far more absurd when we realize what Jesus is getting ready to go through. Jesus is way cooler than me (well, duh). I feel like I would have replied with very inappropriate and colorful language asking if the woman was serious and didn't she realize I had more important things going on than worrying about where her sons were going to fit into the Kingdom? I would probably then go on a rant of all the reasons that they didn't deserve seats of such honor!
Jesus turns to the brothers and asks them if they know what it is they are asking. Do they know what it will take? Are they able to "drink from the chalice" Jesus was about to drink? Of course they said yes, because they didn't fully grasp or understand what Jesus was getting at. He then, very politely, let them know that it is not up to Him where they fit into the Kingdom and those positions of honor are not his to give.
The story gets more comical as the other disciples overhear this exchange. Scripture says they became indignant! This simple girl looked that word up and it means "feeling or showing anger or annoyance at what is perceived as unfair treatment."
I go back to my original image. I picture the other kids and parents getting all upset wanting to know why those 2 should get special treatment and would there be favoritism now? In true Jesus form, the ultimate Coach, he uses this as a teaching moment. He basically tells them to knock it off (without saying that) and tells them that in order to be great they will have to learn to serve. Basically, if they want to be great, they need to be willing to give up those "best" spots the way Jesus came to serve and not be served.
Since I grew up playing competative sports, this makes me think so much about that player that wants to be the best. In order to be the best, they need to be helping others to grow and improve. In basketball, it's not enough to be the one scoring all the points, you need to be helping your teammates along the way. You need to share the ball, pass so others can score. In basketball this is an assist, but it sounds like a way to serve as well. Not only does that player get better, but the team gets stronger and in turn, the one who served improves as well.
Is it possible I am taking this analogy too far? Maybe, but I hope it helps this passage make a little more sense if didn't before.
As you go about your day think about ways you can serve others today!
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