Left and Right

In the book of Mark, chapter 10, verse 35, an account begins of James and John asking for positions at the right and left hands of Jesus.  They apparently wanted to be in places of power and influence, and it’s probable that they also hoped to be a little higher in importance than anyone else.  Ironically, the two that ended up in those pricise positions a very short time later hadn’t volunteered for the roles, and I’m certain the two brothers didn’t rush forward to offer to switch places with them.  It wouldn’t be until Pentecost’s fire fall that the hearts of Zebedee’s boys would be captured that fully, their intent truly forged, their devotion full on, their lives re-birthed to go anywhere He was leading.

Calvary was a lonely place in spite of the crowds, and one that sharply cuts through any illusions we have of being His heroic helpers.  We have only and always been on the receiving end of the good He has chosen to win and pour out for us.  But that abundance came at a huge price that the Godhead alone paid.  Incredibly, this God has invited us to keep Him company, to be with Him, to listen for the sweet and powerful words He is saying, to go with Him where He goes, to share the joy of watching the Kingdom expand, to each truly be at His side.

The image of the trio of crosses is a reminder that the first sign of companionship with Him comes through humility, but it isn’t our shame He’s after or requires us to bear.  As these last days of Lent unfold this week, maybe we can remember that He thought we were worth dying for and He knew the beautiful potential to unfold as we are Jesus-saved, Kingdom-knit, Spirit-filled, and Mission-given.   Life is different when we are living it as one big “Thank You” card back to Him rather than standing on the sidelines admiring Him at a distance or hankering for a title.  The day before He hung there with only our sin draping heavily on Him He had knelt down to wash our feet, a preview of the full washing He would be providing for us just hours later as His blood poured out to clean us fully and forever.  He wants us to be close, at His right and left side receiving and sharing all that He is, all that He’s done, anticipating all He is yet to do.