March 20, 2019 Wednesday of the 2nd Week of Lent-C

Jeremiah 18:18-20

Psalm 31

Matthew 20:17-28

“Can you drink of the chalice that I am going to drink?” Mt. 20:22

Lord, most mothers want their children to succeed and prosper in life.  The belief at the time was that your kingdom would be an earthly one with all the status and power that would come with it.  The mother in the gospel just wanted her sons to be in high places when you came to power.  She, nor her sons, realized what greatness looked like in your kingdom.  Many of us make the same mistake today.  Isaiah prophesied that you would be a servant and a suffering one at that.  To be successful in your kingdom is to serve like you did.  The chalice you offered to your disciples was one of giving their lives to God in the service of others.  That is greatness.  Lord, it is dying to myself in order to live for you.  I’ll probably not die on a cross but I can offer my life to you by looking out for my brothers and sisters.  I can witness to your love for them and help them trust in your presence.  Jesus, as I serve help me to do so with love.  May I respect the dignity of everyone I meet today.  Amen.