Blind Ambition

Nº 348

April 1, 2025

All of us have inflated views of ourselves, especially in self-righteousness, until we have visited a place called Calvary. It is there, at the foot of the cross, that we shrink to our true size. - John Stott

As Jesus worked his way toward Jerusalem for the final time, He shared with His disciples the agonizing, humiliating, barbaric death that awaited Him.

After hearing Jesus unburden His heart, James and John pulled Him aside and said, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask.” (Mark 10:35) Jesus responded by asking, “What do you want me to do for you?” (10:36) They replied, “Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in your glory.” (10:37)

While their mentor and friend faced pain, trauma, torture, and death, James and John jockeyed for seats at the head table. Once the other 10 disciples learned of the request, they were indignant. Not because James and John had promoted their image-building scheme while showing total disregard for Jesus’ agony, but because James and John had jumped in line in front of them. They too focused on their personal desires and ignored Jesus’ pain.

The more we scheme to advance our self-promoting agendas, the more oblivious we become to the pain of those around us. As we celebrate Easter, let’s set aside our self-serving agendas, and like Jesus, develop a greater sensitivity to the needs of others.

Excelsior,

Dan Bolin

Author & President