May 8, 2021 (Saturday)
Jesus had an inner circle of disciples — Peter, James and John. James and John were brothers, and known as “the sons of thunder.” We hear much from Peter, and we also hear from John, who referred to himself as “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” But we hear little from James, his brother, who always appears in the company of his brother.
Toward the end of Jesus’ ministry, their mother approached Jesus, asking that Jesus seat James and John on either side of Himself when He became king. Jesus tried to explain to her the nature of His Kingdom, that it was a spiritual kingdom in the hearts of people, and that it was not in His power to make such assignments.
John appears at the cross of Christ, and Jesus asks him to take care of his mother. James becomes an object of King Herod’s wrath and is killed, causing Christians to flee to other places, sharing the gospel as they went. (Also at that time Peter is arrested in thrown into prison, but is miraculously set free by the angel of God).
Perhaps their mother felt justified in asking for favors because her sons were Jesus’ cousins. As a member of the family she seemed to be comfortable asking for special treatment.
But of course God had other things in mind for her sons. Yes, they were part of Jesus’ inner circle, but they were also destined for greatness within the Kingdom of God once they understood what it was. James became a martyr. John would author a gospel of Christ and record for posterity his vision on Patmos, the Book of Revelation. He would also write three letters that became books of the Bible.
Many Christians have thought they knew what God wanted only to learn that His plans were different from their own. We will find many blessings when we live our lives according to the will of God, whatever that may turn out to be. We should always remain open to God’s counsel and guidance in our lives, no mater where or how that leads us. “Your will be done” is among the greatest prayers we can offer to the Lord. Not always the easiest way, but always the best way.
Lelia Morris
1900
My stubborn will at last hath yielded
I would be Thine and Thine alone
And this the prayer my lips are bringing
Lord, let in me Thy will be done
Sweet will of God, still fold me closer
Til I am wholly lost in Thee
Sweet will of God, still fold me closer
Til I am wholly lost in Thee
I’m tired of sin, footsore and weary
The darksome path hath dreary grown
But now a light has ris’n to cheer me
I find in Thee my Star, my Sun
Sweet will of God, still fold me closer
Til I am wholly lost in Thee
Sweet will of God, still fold me closer
Til I am wholly lost in Thee
Thy precious will, O conqu’ring Savior
Doth now embrace and compass me
The storms have ceased, my peace a river
My soul a prisoned bird set free
Sweet will of God, still fold me closer
Til I am wholly lost in Thee
Sweet will of God, still fold me closer
Til I am wholly lost in Thee
Shut in with Thee, O Lord, forever,
My wayward feet no more to roam;
What power from Thee my soul can sever?
The center of God’s will my home.
Sweet will of God, still fold me closer
Til I am wholly lost in Thee
Sweet will of God, still fold me closer
Til I am wholly lost in Thee