At this point in their relationship with Jesus, the apostles do not truly understand what discipleship will entail. And perhaps too readily they agree to drink the "cup" of Jesus and be "baptized" with him. He is of course referring to his passion. Loving him more and more, identifying with his mission of mercy and self-gift, soon they will understand more clearly, as they see mocked and scourged and crucified.
As Father Emmanuel reminded us in his homily this morning, worldly ambition is always a temptation - seeking power and prestige and predominance. To follow Christ means to serve, just as he came to serve, not to be served. This is a lesson to be learned and re-learned here in the "school of love," that is the monastery.
Photograph by Brother Brian.
