In the Gospel narrative we have this weekend, we can imagine the rage of the ten other disciples after hearing of James’ and John’s request to be seated on the left and the right side of Jesus. Why? It was because these two beat them to it! If only they knew that in the end, the right and left places on the throne of Jesus, on that Cross, would go to convicted thieves and criminals!

After riches or money, the second great idol of the world in our time is power. And today, the Gospel judges power.  In itself, power is not evil.  Even God Himself, in the Bible, is majestic and powerful: He is all-powerful, all power belongs to Him. The problem starts when power is abused and misused, not only by people of authority, but all of us: workers in the church, parents of families, people from all walks of life – we  are all prone to the lure of power and ambition.

Is it wrong to be ambitious? Is it wrong to dream of a better life, a higher status, or a more glamorous or esteemed position in the society? After all, is that not what our parents have been trying to tell us since we were young? Do not our schools inculcate the desire for excellence and greatness in young people’s tender minds?

To be ambitious may be right or wrong depending on the intention. Some people are ambitious in a selfish way, wanting to gain glory only for themselves. This was clearly the type of motivation James and John, and though unsaid, the ten other disciples, had. That was why the Lord had to frustrate their plan.

Others are ambitious in a selfless way, desiring to be the best they can be, to do the best they can, for the glory of God and the service of others. This was the lesson Jesus tried to teach His disciples and us today. When He said that the great one should first be the servant of others, He is reminding us of His teachings and His examples. Here was someone who came “to serve and not to be served”.

That is why it is very essential to always fix our eyes on Jesus.  He is the first, yet He made Himself the last; He worked for our redemption but did not wait for appreciation. Even today, people question Him. Others do not believe in Him. A number turn away at the slightest challenge in their faith. Yet, Jesus remains faithful to us. He desires for us to stay with Him, to be faithful to Him … to Him who was faithful to His role as servant. His power lies in His love, in His service. This is Jesus’ solution to the ambition of James and John: “Whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all.”

Be ambitious, for God and for others!

Sono semipro grate,
Father Erick

(For the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time)