Dear brothers and sisters, as we celebrate the feast of Saint James the Apostle, we are reminded of the importance of humility, service, and the power of faith. In the Gospel reading today, we see Jesus' encounter with the mother of James and John, who ask him to grant their request to sit at his right and left hand in his kingdom. Jesus responds by saying that this is not for him to give, but is reserved for those prepared by his Father.
This encounter highlights the contrast between earthly ambition and divine wisdom. The two brothers are focused on their own desires and interests, whereas Jesus is focused on serving others. He says that true greatness comes not from seeking power or status, but from serving others and laying down one's life for them.
In our first reading from 2 Corinthians, we are reminded that as followers of Jesus, we are called to embody this same spirit of service and humility. Paul writes that we are "carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus" so that "the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our body." This means that we must be willing to take up our crosses daily and follow Jesus in his path of self-sacrifice.
It is here that we see the importance of distinguishing between James the Less and James the Greater. James the Greater, also known as James son of Zebedee, was one of Jesus' inner circle, along with his brother John. He was known for his enthusiasm and zeal, but also for his lack of understanding at times. In today's Gospel reading, he is part of his mother's request to sit at Jesus' right hand.
On the other hand, James the Less is often referred to as "the Just" or "the younger James." He is thought to be the author of the Epistle of James in the New Testament, which emphasizes the importance of faith, works, and humility. His epistle is a call to Christians to live out their faith in practical ways, serving others and showing compassion.
As we celebrate the feast of Saint James the Apostle today, let us reflect on our own desires and ambitions. Are we seeking to serve others or simply advance our own interests? Are we willing to take up our crosses daily and follow Jesus in his path of self-sacrifice?
Let us ask for the same spirit of faith and humility that eventually guided James and his brother John after they learned from Jesus that this indeed is the true way of the disciple. May we too be filled with a sense of awe and wonder at the power and wisdom of God, and may we be willing to surrender our own plans and desires to serve others.
May we also remember that true greatness comes not from seeking power or status, but from serving others and laying down our lives for them. This is what our Lord did and this was the most powerful way he taught the apostles. May we learn also from our meek and humble Saviour, who is always with us. St James, pray for us.
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