Every high priest is selected from among men and is appointed to represent them in matters related to God… No one takes this honor upon himself; he must be called by God… Hebrews 5:1-10
There was an old saying in politics (before women’s suffrage and before the modern advertising age): “The man does not seek the office. The office seeks the man.” In other words, we should not try to exalt ourselves by grasping and plotting to obtain a high office or to be honored.
A century ago we still tried to practice this in American politics. A candidate who hoped to be nominated to run for president would sit at home during the party convention, waiting to hear if he had been chosen.
In the church we still believe this. No one should campaign to be called as our next pastor. Instead, it is God acting through the church that should call people into positions of responsibility.
In our gospel lesson we’re a bit offended that James and John would presume to ask for positions of honor. You just don’t do that. You don’t ask to be considered more important than everyone else.
The writer to the Hebrews says that even Jesus did not make himself the high priest. “So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him, “You are my Son…”
If even Jesus waited for the Father’s call, why should you think that you are entitled to whatever position of honor or authority that you desire? Of course, no one schemes to become a leader in the church because these places don’t come with power or money. They come with service, with responsibility, with lots of problems to solve.
Nevertheless, God calls them a high honor. One who serves in God’s kingdom is exalted. And whoever serves in the lowest place is the most important. Where are you today? You are where God called you to be, and we wait for him to honor us by calling us even lower.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I am your servant. Help me to be content to serve where and when you send me. Amen.