A Foolish Request

Then the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus with her sons. She knelt respectfully to ask a favor. "What is your request?" he asked. She replied, "In your Kingdom, please let my two sons sit in places of honor next to you, one on your right and the other on your left." Matthew 20:20-21 (NLT)

As mothers, God gives us great influence on our children. From their earliest moments of life, they are completely dependant on us. In fact, our task is to raise these precious little ones to mature young adults with complete independence from us as, ready to be productive on their own. I love that little saying, "We are to give our children roots and wings." I also read, "Give them roots to keep them grounded through tough times. Give them wings to soar above everything, explore new worlds, and fly farther than we ever did." As much as we might agree with this goal, it is easy to get sidetracked on our own motherly agenda and timetable for both. Notice the mother mentioned in the reading for today. She was really going out on a limb for her two sons with a special request of Jesus. Now, these were grown men—not young boys. My question is why was she involved? Why was she even there? Was she there to fight for their just reward? These two men were part of the band of disciples that were called by Jesus to work by his side during His earthly ministry. Jesus answered her question but their response indicated that they were still clueless. I am not so bothered by the men's reckless answer because Jesus would straighten them out. But what was the mother thinking? This is a good reminder that our children are on loan to us. Over the years in our care, we nurture them, teach them, discipline them, and of course, love them. Then we let them go. I know I will always be my kids' greatest cheerleader, but I no longer control the game.