James and John ask Jesus if they can have the highest positions when Jesus comes into power. Jesus tells them, “You do not know what you are asking” and reminds them that just a few moments before, he had described the suffering and death he will face. Are they ready to join him in that kind of leadership? Maybe not.
Who are the “servant-leaders” in your life? Leaders who have given their time and themselves to help, guide, and care for the people they are leading? Who have helped you and others grow and use your abilities? This is the kind of leader Jesus is, the kind he is calling his followers to be. The idea hasn’t quite gotten through to James and John (and probably the others) or they might not have asked to be the ones right beside Jesus. Sure, in a typical power structure, the ones on the right and the left hand of the leader would have the most power and influence, and be privileged above the others . . . but Jesus is not about typical power structures.
The kind of community Jesus calls us and all of his disciples to build is a place of servant leadership. A world where the powerful use their power for others rather than themselves. A world where those who lead see and truly value all the people who make up the community. A place where hierarchy has a different, more inclusive meaning. A community marked by leaders who serve and endure hardships for the sake of others. Jesus models this kind of leadership and invites us to do the same.
Peace,