A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew
Jesus said, “Just so, the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
As Jesus goes toward Jerusalem with the Twelve disciples, he tells them that he will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, condemned to death, mocked, scourged, and crucified, and then raised on the third day. About that time, the mother of James and John asks that Jesus command that her two sons sit beside him in his kingdom. He said in reply, “You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?” They said to him, “We can.” He replied, “My chalice you will indeed drink, but to sit at my right and at my left, this is not mine to give but is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” The other disciples are disturbed at hearing this, but Jesus says that among them, authority is not flaunted as it is among the Gentiles. Instead, Jesus says, “Whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant.” Jesus served by giving his life as a ransom for many. What will God present to me today as an opportunity to serve others?
God, help me see today’s Gospel account in relation to this day. It isn’t likely that by serving others today I will give to the point of agony. Yet, in whatever way I do serve, help me remember to do this in unity with your suffering for the glory of your Father. Jesus said to James and John, “My chalice you will indeed drink, but to sit at my right and at my left, this is not mine to give.” Give me today, God, the knowledge of your will and the courage to carry it out with love.
Lord, when the mother of James and John approached you, you asked her, “What do you wish?” Just as you were attentive to her, you hear whatever I ask. Give me the grace today to remember to ask for what I need and hear your response. Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.