Jesus says to the two disciples, asking to have precedence in the Kingdom they believe Jesus will establish as the Messiah: "You do not know what you are asking." (Mk 10: 38) It is clear that they have misunderstood the nature of his messiah-ship which will be revealed fully in his passion, death and resurrection. Nevertheless, Jesus accedes to their request, interpreting it as a desire to share in his mission. He then clarifies his destiny saying: "For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." (Mk 10: 45) This statement challenged not just James and John but, as a part of the living Word, it challenges us, who wish to be disciples of the Lord, today. Am I prepared to use the grace and charisms I have received to ransom others from sin? There is a danger that I look upon the world, as well as those who are enslaved by sin and death, with judgement. The Catholic Bishops Conference's Pastoral Letter for Respect for Life Sunday says: "Today as shepherds or hepara, we stand close to those of you who carry the heavy burden and grief of an abortion. Sometimes that anguish, when shared, met with a cold detached judgement. That was wrong. We encourage those of you who need the burden of regret lifted, to share your story, and, in the words of Jesus, 'find rest for your soul'(cf. Mtt 11: 29-30 )." Part of our job as disciples is to listen to those who are damaged by sin and have them find in us a compassion heart attentive to the mercy of God. In this way we place ourselves at the service of the Gospel rather than looking for positions of privilege.
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