Peter’s Reflection on James and John’s Request
This narrative is a fictional reflection based on the account found in Mark 10:35-45. The words and thoughts expressed are a creative interpretation, imagining what one of the apostles might have experienced during this interaction with Jesus. While inspired by Scripture, this story is not a direct account of the events and should be read as an imaginative way to explore the deeper spiritual truths presented in the Bible.
I couldn't believe it when I heard what James and John had asked Jesus. “Grant that we may sit, one on Your right and one on Your left, in Your glory.” (Mark 10:37) They were asking to be at the highest places of honor, as if they deserved it more than the rest of us. My first thought was, How could they be so bold? How could they think they were better than the rest of us?
I looked around, and the other disciples were just as stunned as I was. When they heard about it, they became indignant with James and John. (Mark 10:41) I felt the anger rise inside me, too. But then, something else stirred in my heart—something I didn’t want to face. Deep down, wasn’t I just like them?
“Whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant...” (Mark 10:43) Jesus had said this before, but now it hit me with new weight. I had been walking with Jesus all this time, but I was still caught up in thinking that greatness meant power and recognition. How often had I tried to prove my worth, to get Jesus’ approval, or to have a position of importance?
I remember the time when I tried to walk on water to Jesus, desperate to be seen as brave, to be noticed for my faith, but when I started to sink, I was reminded that it’s not about what I can do—it's about trusting in Him. “You of little faith,” He said to me, (Matthew 14:31) and I realized, again, that it wasn’t about my greatness—it was about His.
When Jesus answered James and John, He spoke of suffering, of drinking from the same cup He would drink. “Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” (Mark 10:38) They said they were ready. But I knew, in my heart, they didn’t fully understand what that meant. We would all have to face suffering for Him, for His kingdom, and it would be in those moments of humility and surrender that true greatness would emerge.
I think back to the way Jesus led by example. He didn’t come to be served, but to serve. “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45) I remembered how He washed our feet, showing us that greatness in His kingdom is not about position, but about being willing to humble ourselves and serve one another.
I had spent so much time looking for ways to be first. “Lord, is it I?” I had asked when Jesus foretold His betrayal (Matthew 26:22). Even now, as we struggled with pride, I realized that the answer to that question wasn't just about betrayal—it was about surrendering to God's will, about choosing service over self-promotion.
So, when I saw James and John asking for those positions, I realized it wasn’t just about them. It was a reflection of what was in my own heart. We all needed to learn, as Jesus taught us: “But the greatest of you shall be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)
True greatness isn’t found in seats of honor—it’s found in how we live for others, how we love and serve as Christ did. And maybe, just maybe, that’s the lesson I still needed to learn.
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“What I write is not for everyone, but what I write is meant for someone.”
I am the author of two books: Embracing God's Wisdom: A Journey of Faith and Reflection and Embracing God’s Wisdom: Paul’s Commands for Victorious Living. Both are available on Amazon.
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I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service. (1 Timothy 1:12)