People who make their authority felt have a variety of ways to do so. Sometimes they thank you for your good idea and then proceed to tell you why it would never work. Their approach is sometimes subtle a quiet reminder of potential negative consequences. Other times it can be a shout to help focus attention. We all know people like this, people who boss others around. Maybe we're even one of them. Jesus has only one answer for this outlook ó his own example: The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.Jesus is Lord, but he wasn't bossy!

2. If Not a Gulp, at Least a Sip: 

For James and John to follow Christ, they will have to drink the cup that the Lord will drink. What is this cup? Fast forward to Gethsemane: Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me (Luke 22:42). Jesus' own human nature struggled with the implications of full adherence to God's plan. Ultimately, he would drink that cup ó one of bitter suffering, to the very dregs. He called James and John to imitate him. He is inviting us as well. Fortunately, he prepares our souls to be generous. He guides us to greater spiritual maturity, offering us little sips from his cup. The small sufferings of daily life purify our souls.

3. Servant Leadership: 

Jesus' life was a ransom for many. He was the servant of Yahweh and, as such, he constantly served others in their most profound needs. Jesus met people where they were the weakest: he helped the blind regain their sight, the lame to walk, lepers to be cleansed, the deaf to hear, the dead to rise, and to the poor he preached the good news (Cf. Matthew 11:5). A leader has vision, but unless he is a servant leader, he may see only his vision. We cannot allow ourselves to be out of touch with the needs of those around us. Let us strive to serve others by meeting them on their level.

Resolution: