YOU KNOW THE BEST?

Feast of St. James, Apostle
Mt 20:20-28

Parents wish the best for their children. Normally, they do not simply wish for it; they work hard for it. They are the first and best supporters of their children.

What do you wish for your children? What do you work hard for on their behalf? Are you the first and best supporters of your children?

The mother of James and John wanted to secure the best future for her boys. She asked Jesus to reserve the seats on His right and left for her sons, James and John. We cannot blame her. She was a mother, you know.

The mother of James and John mustered all courage to beg from Jesus what she thought to be the best for her sons. We should not despise her. She was a mother, you know.

Jesus, however, had something else for James and John. He also had their best future in mind though. Nevertheless, the best for James and John was not what mother wished but what God willed.

God willed that James and John fix their eyes on Jesus rather than on the seats at His right and left. God willed that James and John drink from the cup that Jesus would drink from. God willed that James and John, and all those who follow Jesus, serve and not be served. And God’s will is always the best, you know.

What do you think is best for your children? An easy life? A life surrounded by servants? A wealthy life similar to that of the rich and the famous? Think again. Pray again. Your best may not be good enough. For God’s will is always the best, you know.

What then is God’s will for your children? Only God has the answer. And His answer should be what you must beg from Jesus for your children, not seats of power, fame or fortune, not seats at His right or left. God can take care of your children better than you can. For God is the best, you know.

And, by the way, God is a Father, too.