Feast of St James the Apostle

SACriFiCE OF thanksGivinG

James and John had everything going for them - or so their mother thought. They were followers of Jesus, and things had never looked better. Jesus was popular and disciples were in the limelight. The lives of these simple, poor and humble fishermen changed radically the very first day they encountered Jesus.
The Jews at the time of Jesus believed that the Messiah would come and he would establish his reign. There would be victory, peace and life. Unfortunately, many expected this messiah to be a political figure. They did not expect that Jesus, the acclaimed Messiah, would suffer and die. Many people hoped that the messiah would overturn the Roman government and that Israel would enjoy prosperity and peace.
It was in this vein that the mother of the sons of Zebedee approached Jesus. She paid Him homage, and made her request – that her sons sit one at the right, and one at the left, of Jesus’ Kingdom. It is true what Jesus said to her in reply — she does not know what she is asking. To be a disciple of Jesus is to give one’s life for the cause of the Gospel. The chalice is the cup of God’s wrath, the cup of judgment. Taking the chalice meant undergoing Jesus’ own journey of suffering. James and John truly to entered into the sufferings of Christ. James was beheaded by King Agrippa, and John was exiled to Pathos (a Greek Island) and heard the persecution his beloved community was experiencing.
Matthew tells us that jealousy, envy and resentment found its way among the other 10 apostles who came to know about James’ and John’s ambition. Jesus used the situation as a tool for teaching on leadership and service in the Kingdom of God. The service of Jesus was to be a ransom, His blood poured out as a sacrifice for the sinfulness of humanity.
There will be times when we are called to drink the chalice of suffering, but we also take the cup of thanksgiving as we call on the name of the Lord, who helps us in our journey. Fr. Brian Steele

Reflection Question:
What sacrifice can I make before the Lord today? Let us offer a pleasing sacrifice to Him.

Help me, Lord, to endure the cost of following You. Grant me the grace to love You and seek Your face. Amen.

St. James the Greater, apostle, pray for us.