Saint James, Apostle - Feast
2 Corinthians 4:7-15
Psalm 125(126):1-6
Matthew 20:20-28
CALLED TO LOVE, CALLED TO SERVE
Today, the Church honors St. James, the brother of St. John—son of Zebedee and fisherman by trade. After they met with Jesus, he witnessed the Transfiguration and was present during the sleepless hours of the Agony in the Garden. Notably, he was the first of the apostles to face martyrdom, beheaded by King Herod Agrippa I to appease Jewish opponents of Christianity. He also played a role in Peter’s arrest and once got a harsh lesson in humility—being consumed by an internal parasite or worms as a punishment for pride.
The Lord puts it to us in today’s gospel that Power, status, privilege, and prestige often go hand-in-hand with leadership—and they can be dangerously tempting. Like James and John, some of us follow Christ for the recognition and honor, while others seek to be in charge and exert control as men and women of God. Some pursue respect and authority to sway others, while some follow Him only during difficult times, abandoning Him once circumstances improve. Others chase after specific favors, expecting personal gain. Focusing solely on these aspects leads us astray, turning leadership into a means to dominate rather than serve, and ultimately, the mission suffers. Viewing leadership only through the lens of titles and positions misses the true essence altogether.
For Jesus, leadership transcends mere titles or hierarchy. Though it may come with outward trappings, what truly matters to Him is the dynamic of service. “Whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant; and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave,” He urges us today. He challenges us to reflect on how we wield the power and authority entrusted to us, whether in the Church or outside it. The key lesson is that the most effective and noble way to exercise authority isn’t by lording over others but by serving for their good and welfare. After all, God is the source of all power and authority, setting the standard for its rightful use. Just as He demonstrated His strength by sacrificing Himself for us while we were still sinners, we too must avoid abusing power and instead use it in service.
Moreover, while leadership often involves visible roles, titles, and the responsibility to lead, Jesus emphasizes that true leadership also requires readiness to face betrayal, restrictions, and even death. He speaks openly of His ‘cup’—a symbol of these sacrifices—showing that genuine authority is a privilege given by God. The essence of true leadership, like Christ’s, is serving others.
Imagine how different the world would be if our leaders—politicians included—used their authority as servants. It all starts with each of us, in how we exercise our own authority and influence—at home, work, school, or church. Reflect on it: how are you using the authority God has entrusted to you?
We are blessed with exemplary leaders to follow—let us embrace their example. “The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.” St. James, pray for us. Amen.
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