Most people have mothers who have asked for favors from God on their behalf. Mothers have their children’s best interests at heart and only want the best for their kids. In our scripture reading today from Matthew’s Gospel, the mother of Zebedee’s sons asked Jesus for a bold favor; she wanted her two boys to sit at the right and left of Him in the kingdom. Jesus responds by asking the two sons if they were prepared to drink the poison that He would drink and be baptized in the same manner. They both acknowledged they would, and Jesus forecasts and affirms that this would come to pass. Then Jesus says to the mother, “What you ask of Me is not mine to give, but for whom My Father has prepared.” The mother in the story truly had no idea what she was asking.
To walk in the footsteps of Jesus means dying to self. To live the kingdom life, we must be transformed from a taker to a giver. It means instead of being; first, we are prepared to be last. Our welfare, plans, and designs take a backseat. We will become more interested in offering our best to the kingdom instead of what we can take from the kingdom. Are you willing to make this kind of sacrifice to live the kingdom life? Mothers always want God’s best for their children, but mommy’s don’t know what they’re asking. Please advise your mother to be careful when asking God for favors on your behalf.
Scripture Readings
Reflection Questions
- What did you take away from today’s reflection and scripture readings?
- Is your mother praying relentlessly on your behalf?
- What do you think the mother of Zebedee’s sons was asking?
- How do you think Jesus interpreted her request?
- What are some of your concerns about the deaths of the firstborns in Egypt?
- Is the God portrayed in both the Old and New Testament the same God?
Prayer
Lord, the kingdom life is my only desire. Remove from me any remnants of self that inhibit my ability to follow You wholly. Please bless all the mothers, for their hearts are made from You. In Your Spirit and Name, I pray these things. Amen.
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