James and John wanted to sit at Jesus’ side in glory. They
wanted to be close (and, given the context, they wanted to be big shots).
[They said to Him, “Grant us that we may sit, one on Your
right hand and the other on Your left, in Your glory.”][Mark 10]
Jesus said No.
Curiously, he wasn’t saying “No” to the desire to be a big
shot. In the next breath, he shows them how to aspire to greatness
appropriately. [Mark 10:42-45]
I’m thinking that Jesus said No because sitting on his right
and left was too far away for his preferences. That means they’re separated,
that means there’s (a little) distance between him and them.
He didn’t want them to be separate from him, even if they’re
right next to him. He wanted them united in him [John 14:20, 15:4, 17:21]. He
didn’t want them seated on the throne right next to his. He wanted them – just
like he wants you and me – right there on his throne with him, in him
[Ephesians 1:20]
So go ahead and aspire to greatness. Go ahead and aspire to
“become great,” as Jesus encourages.
Just do it his way. Just do it from your place IN him. Don’t
aspire to be separated, next to him. You are in him! Go with that! It’s way
better than “next to”!
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