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Researchers at Rochester University surveyed one-year alumni. They found that graduates who aspired to be rich and powerful were more depressed than others were. These self-seeking alumni were like James and John. These brothers were looking for position and power when they came to Jesus one day. “Teacher,” they said, “We want you to do us a favor. When you sit on your glorious throne, we want to sit in places of honor next to you, one on your right and the other on your left.” Jesus said, “You do not know what you are asking! Are you able to drink from the bitter cup of suffering I am about to drink? Are you able to be baptized with the baptism of suffering I must be baptized with?” Oh yes, we are able. Jesus said, “You will indeed drink from my bitter cup and be baptized with my baptism. But I have no right to say who will sit on my right and left. God has prepared those places for the ones He has chosen. Jesus then said, “The rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else.” Jesus upended the value system of our world. He said, instead of dominating and exploiting others for selfish gain, we should serve others lovingly and humbly.
