Yesterday, I celebrated my silver jubilee with my family, friends, and parishioners. The actual date was July 19, 2022, though. Looking back on the God past twenty-five years, one wonders where the years have gone. In all circumstances, we give glory and praise to God for His infinite mercy and love.
Saint Paul reminded us in the first reading, Second Letter to the Corinthians, that “We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency may be of the power of, and not of us.”
In the Gospel, Our Lord put the following question to James and his brother and the rest of the twelve: “Are you able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?”
The Lord clearly made it known that the call to discipleship is a call to service. It is never a political appointment but a ministry of charity. Pope Francis noted, “Jesus sought to correct his disciples when he saw their enthusiasm for him had become “tainted” by a “worldly mentality” interested in power. The path of service is the most effective antidote against the disease of seeking first place; it is the medicine for climbers,” who exist everywhere, even among Christians and members of the church’s hierarchy. Therefore, as disciples of Christ, let us receive this Gospel (passage) as a call to conversion, to bear witness with courage and generosity to a church that kneels at the feet of the least in order to serve them with love and simplicity.”
James the Greater, whose feast day we celebrate today, was passionate, zealous, quick-tempered- and had loving obedience to Christ and his Kingdom program. He paid the ultimate price, martyrdom, and in doing so, drank the cup of Christ’s suffering and being baptized with the baptism of Christ’s death.
Each one of us will have to answer this same question daily “Are you able to drink from the cup…..” Jesus’ followers will have to drink the same cup; in one sense, it must represent persecution and suffering, even to death.
No matter the situation we may find ourselves in, may we be consoled by these “Be still and know that I am God.” (Ps 46:10)
Happy feast of Saint James and have a wonderful week.
