James and John are showing dedication and loyalty to Jesus by asking to be seated at his right and left when he comes into his glory. They do not know what they are asking, as Jesus tells them. For the seating assignment is based not simply on dedication and loyalty – but tested and tried dedication and loyalty – dedication and loyalty that has stood the test of persecution – severe persecution, for some, at times.
And so Jesus assures them that they will have a seat nearby – and it will be based on suffering – but those who sit closest to him will be assigned at a later time when everyone's place will be determined!
Jesus is impressed with James and John's enthusiasm – but he takes this opportunity to teach about places of honor and greatness. The truly great are the ones who serve – and who give their very all in service to their brothers and sisters. In fact, giving one's life for one's friends is the ultimate demonstration of such love and service. Just as Jesus went this far for us and for our salvation; so too we are called to do the same, if the situation warrants it!
In the first reading today St. Peter reminds us that all flesh is like grass and all its glory is like the flower of the field; the grass withers, and the flower wilts; but the word of the Lord remains forever. When we remain in the word of God; when we remain in the Word of God Made Flesh: Jesus – and he and his Father remain in us – then we will endure forever as well! By our obedience to his word and his truth we shall be saved forever. Pure hearts, tested by the fire of persecution, will participate in the redemption won by the precious spotless unblemished Lamb of God – and his Blood poured out for us!
Let us sincerely love one another because we are experiencing salvation in our own lives – and let us make our experience irresistible to others so that they too may want to share in what we possess – the incomparable gift of God's own Life, God's own Love, God's own Son!
Praise the Lord, Jerusalem!
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