Are we able?

By the Rev. Dr. Linda Bell

Revised Common Lectionary reflection, Proper 24, Year B
October 20, 2024

Key verse: “But Jesus said to them (James and John Sons of Zebedee), “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” They replied, “We are able.” -Mark 10:38

I don’t think anyone would deny these are trying times. Trying times in society, our church, and our government. Society world-wide is facing unheard of disruptions. Famine, gun violence, sickness, wars, atrocities that have never stopped. In the church, not only in the ELCA, division and strife abound. Haggling, fighting, division on cultural differences have caused splits within communities of faith. There are some who believe they are “right” flexing their perceived authority over others. In our society, our cry could be “God help us.” God will help us if we stay the course and figure out what we must do to change a world that is fraught with dissension.

Before our gospel for today Jesus and His disciples are on the road to Jerusalem. Jesus continues the dialogue to prepare the disciples for what will happen. We don’t know if James and John are listening  or not, because they go into a dialogue of who will be the favorite disciples.

It is obvious  James and John don’t get it. Though they have been traveling with Jesus for some time, they don’t understand the importance of the mission and the ministry laid out before them.  The miracles, healing, teachings, and journey seem to have been lost. Instead, they are seeking prestige and power.

In this discourse, Jesus asks a very important question to James and John, and to us – “Are you able.” Are we able to leave behind perceived beliefs of our own importance over others in society, ministry, and everyday life? As disciples if “we are able” as James and John states, how does that affect, our call to ministry? Jesus’ ministry was effective in bringing changes in the society in which He lived. We have a responsibility to follow the example that has been set before us. And “if we are able,” do we let our perceived  perception of some accomplishments request recognition and ask for a special seat at the table? If that is the case, we might ponder why that is so, and what must we do to bring about a change. A change that would impact the lives in our community and society at large.

We have a little help trying to figure things out and to keep focused.

The mission statement of the ELCA is as follows: “We are a church that believes God is calling us into the world – together. As members of the ELCA we use our time, talents, and resources to do God’s work in the world.” This is important because we make decisions and oftentimes, they are based on our needs, or time, rather than considering others. James and John made the decision that they wanted to be more prominent than the other disciples.

So, if we get it, (unlike James and John) and we say yes, ‘we are able’ are we living out our covenant with God. Or are we engaged in the life of the church for our self-seeking egos? The journey of discipleship is about serving others and not being served.

In Worship

This could be an opportunity for the congregation to look at the church’s Mission Statement to determine if individually and as a congregation the Mission Statement and its objectives are being lived out. The older statement could have been appropriate for the past but is not relevant for these current times. Perhaps this is a beginning opportunity to review the document with an emphasis on the steps needed to ensure it is lived out in our call to be disciples.

Giving the congregation something to think about read each section of your mission statement and ask, “Is This So?”

Read the objectives and ask, “Is This So?”

End the sermon with a prayer that encourages contemplation, focus, and renewal seeking the leading of the Holy Spirit and power that was promised at Pentecost.

With Children

The hymn ‘Jesus Loves Me’ offers an important message. I would have it played, or better yet, ask the children and congregation to sing it. When the hymn is over ask the children how they know that Jesus loves them? And how do they share the love that Jesus has given them to others.

Select a Sunday and ask children to bring in something they think would help someone else. This could range from a can of soup, clothing item, drawing they made, to a stuffed animal or coloring book. Ask them to share why they brought a particular item to share. Make certain no one is left out and have items available if someone forgot to bring something.

With Young Adults

The intent is to build ownership of what discipleship means.

Invite young adults to write their own mission statement that follows the church’s mission statement. Once they have a mission statement, define what they mean and how they intend to meet each objective. And if necessary, within time guidelines.

Once that is done, in an inclusive manner encourage a gathering extending  invitations to other churches of worship or organizations with the intent of exploring needs within the community and ways to help others. This is a ministry not focused on self, instead it is a ministry of discipleship.

While in seminary I led two mission trips to New Orleans after hurricane Katrina. If the congregation has never had a mission trip, ask for volunteers to plan a trip. This endeavor requires the assistance of members of the congregation. Everyone has the opportunity to share in this form of discipleship.

Previous reflections for Proper 24B:
2018 – The stewardship/service connection
2015 – Last place winners
2012 – Invitation to the ‘suffer club’
2009 – Wish