Mark 10:32-45
Reflect
In these passages, Jesus starts out telling the disciples about His death and resurrection again. This is the third time. They were still expecting the Messiah to be the conquering king, that Jesus would establish an earthy kingdom to free Israel from Rome’s oppression. In Matthew 19:28, just a few days before, Jesus had promised the disciples that when He came into His glory, they would sit on twelve thrones and judge the twelve tribes of Israel. This is what they have on their minds as they walk up to Jerusalem. There are thrones waiting for them in Jerusalem. The right and left-hand position beside any king in antiquity was a place of unequaled importance and supremacy as not only could they hear everything which was said by the king, but they had immediate and direct access into His presence and would be able to petition Him for those things which they felt important. James and John were asking to sit on those thrones. Jesus did not ridicule them for asking but He denied their request. We can feel free to ask God for anything, but our request may be denied. God wants to give us what is best for us, not merely what we want. He denies some requests for our own good. (see Pastor Mike’s sermon April 25 on “When God says No” https://vimeo.com/showcase/7580148). Jesus was speaking of heavenly thrones, not earthly ones because His kingdom is not of this world but in the hearts and lives of His followers.
Karen Alksne
Pray
- Pray for our Church Board members: Barbara Whidden, Cam Klapstein, Darryl Sparling, Gerhard Hiob, Hal Reirson, JD Kleiwer, Matt Chute, Seth Jansen, and Tyler Elmgren.
- Pray for our Senior Lead Team Pastor, Lyle Buyer, his family and his ministry.
- Pray for our Custodians, Adit Gamble, Stan Goodnough and Anne King; Facilities Manager, Joe Richards.