Then in the Gospel we see these human reactions come into full bloom. Jesus foretells that his revolutionary message will eventually so shake the foundations of the existing power structure to the point that he will be put to death, but triumph over it three days. But in an instance of true irony, the disciples appear to listen to His message with the same tin ear that afflicts all of us, certainly me, sometimes. Apparently the same shortcomings of envy and pride that will cause the scribes and the chief priests to seize Jesus overcome the disciples. When two his disciples appear to be lobbying for special treatment and entrance into God’s kingdom, the other ten, we are told, become “indignant” as if to say: “Hold on, I’m at least as important as they are!” In this respect, human beings apparently haven’t changed much in thousands of years. Most of us like to be honored, told we are doing a good job and making a positive difference. That’s fine if we leave it that. But what follows too easily from that is the urge to tear others down to create the illusion that we are more important and worthy. The best sorts of leaders are those who are quick to give credit to others. They don’t shift the blame to others but take responsibility for their failings. As I make my way through Lent that’s what I’m working on. I don’t want to be like the scribes and chief priests – hopefully none of us do. |