Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the cup that I drink or be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” They said to him, “We can.”
Mark 10:38-41


When John and James ask Jesus to elevate them to powerful positions, Jesus reiterates that sharing in his glory will not be easy. This passage is jarring because, as a reader, we know how the story ends — we know the “cup” to which Jesus refers, and that James and John will suffer as they proclaim the Gospel to the early Christians.

How many of us focus on controlling the present, on our personal success, but are less concerned about our relationship with God? Jesus has a deep and unconditional love for you. Sometimes letting go of control allows us to create space in our hearts to feel that love.

Have you ever let go of something, perhaps fearfully, and were then opened to new possibilities?  Be bold this week by stepping back from your tight control on life and give yourself space to see your relationship with God in new ways.