On the road leading up to Jerusalem, Jesus makes his third prediction on the passion that he will undergo in the city. Immediately after, the Gospel passage presents us with the scene where the mother of James and John asks Jesus that her sons be given special prominence in the kingdom. Even as Jesus speaks about his imminent death, those around him seek short-cuts for places of honour in the kingdom.

Later, the other disciples express their anger at the request of James and John. By this, they show they are no less free from ambition than James and John. This presents the occasion for Jesus to teach the disciples about the importance of serving others as a way of leadership in his community. Jesus contrasts the style leadership as practiced by the Gentiles with the leadership modelled by Jesus, that is, to become the servant and slave of all. This style of kingdom leadership is founded in the example of the sacrificial death of Christ as a "ransom for many". The true Son proves his sonship by always submitting to the Father's will instead of grasping at glory. His disciples must imitate the Son's humility and obedience.

Lent is an excellent time for us to reflect on what is really important to us as disciples of Jesus. If we claim to be his followers, should not we take seriously Jesus' example of being a servant to others? Or do we prefer instead to seek for places of honour on earth by grasping at earthly glory, pleasures and possessions?