In the Gospel reading, the disciples failed to grasp the true meaning of what Jesus said about His impending suffering and death. This is revealed in the request of James and John as expressed by their mother. Considering themselves as the privileged group of disciples, their apparent readiness to risk their life was linked with the ulterior ambition for power and position. Jesus' response was clearly a challenge to them to realize that the only way to glory was by sharing in his suffering.

The resentment of the other disciples also shows that they too were not free from such ambition for power and position. Jesus took the opportunity to emphasize that authority is for service and not to display power and domination. The reversal of all human standards of rank and greatness is exemplified in verse 28, "¡K The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give life as a ransom for many." - a life-giving service for the salvation of humankind.

During this Lenten season, let us examine ourselves particularly as Christian leaders: How do we manifest our authority in humble service and to work for the Kingdom values which are contrary to what the world promotes. Confronted with such a reality in our society, do we also pray like Jeremiah as in the first reading.