February 28, 2024, Wednesday of the 2nd Week of Lent-B

Jerimiah 18:18-20

Psalm 31

Matthew 20:17-28

“You do not know what you are asking.”  Matthew 20:22

Lord, sometimes I too don’t know the eventual result of whatever I am asking you to do for me.  You always know what is best for me.  In some way it had to please you that James and John wanted to have important roles in your kingdom.  Despite their self-serving motives they did commit to you and where you would lead them.  Sure, they misunderstood the nature of your Kingdom, didn’t see the cross as your throne or their sharing in that cross.  Their prideful ambition was misplaced.  Their request provided an opportunity for you to define true greatness in your Kingdom.  Traveling with you was like Lent.  This is a time to readjust my priorities, see what is truly important and to practice humble service.  As you formed and taught James and John, form and teach me too.  As you prepared them for the cross, prepare me to leave behind anything that’s not part of your Kingdom.  Lord, turn my ambitions and other human qualities into whatever best serves your Kingdom.  Thank you for your patient and loving guidance.  I rely on your grace to show me the path to true greatness.  Amen.