Commentary
Jesus'
Patience
Today's
Gospel passage reports the request James and John make. It comes
after the third time Jesus announces what would happen to him in
Jerusalem (10: 32-23). And this time, Jesus gives more concrete
details of his suffering and death than ever before. [1]
With
each prediction, Jesus moves closer to Jerusalem. There is also a
progression in Jesus' selection of his audiences for the predictions
of his passion. [2]
The
first prediction of the passion was given to the disciples. Peter
responded by trying to dissuade Jesus. In response, Jesus spoke to
“the crowd with his disciples” about the call to deny oneself,
take up one's cross and follow him (Chapter 8).
The
second prediction was again given to the disciples. They then argued
who was the greatest. Jesus called the Twelve and taught them about
true greatness in humble and loving service of others (Chapter 9).
Today's
passage from Chapter 10 follows immediately the third prediction.
Here, the prediction was given only to the Twelve. And after their
erroneous response, Jesus again spoke only to the Twelve.
There
seems to be a progression here. Those Jesus himself has chosen and
called seem in need of his patience and instruction more than anybody
else.
The
Lord knows them and their needs well. They are his friends. And he
is patient with them.
He
would try over and over again to teach them the mystery of his love,
which reveals fully on the cross.
His
mercy and patience give us courage when we don't get it.
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[1]
Francis J. Moloney. The
Gospel of Mark, A Commentary.
Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 2002; p. 204.
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