Pilate Views the Cross 4

Matthew 20:20-23

While working as a high school teacher I was present one day when a student saw a Porsche drive by. He made a fist and growled, “Why does he get that car and not me?” I am sure the student didn’t want to hear it, but I took a moment to explain that the owner of the car probably worked hard at a job and saved up enough money to buy it. Few people have the luxuries of life simply handed over to them.

In this passage the mother of two of Jesus’ disciples comes to him with a request. What does she want? What challenge does Jesus give in verse 22? What do you think Jesus means in verse 23?

The desire for praise and acclaim is strong in many people. Even the most humble of us would be pleased if others offered praise and appreciation for what we have done. It is nice to be rewarded, to be recognized, to be appreciated for our efforts.

But praise and being the center of attention is not something that comes easily, especially in living the Christian life. Accepting Christ as your Savior does not guarantee an easy life. Rather, it will likely involve a life of work and giving.

If we will follow Christ, even if we are not seeking great reward but simply being obedient disciples, we will need to be prepared to drink the cup of Jesus. What does that mean, drink the cup of Jesus?

It means going through the same struggles and enduring the same efforts that Jesus did. The cup that awaited Christ was the heartache of the betrayal of Judas, the agony of Peter’s denial, the pain and humiliation of the crucifixion. That was the cup of Jesus, the cup of sanctification, the cup of forgiveness, of Jesus’ blood poured out for the forgiveness of sin.

If we will imitate Christ, if we will be obedient to God and truly care for others, we will need to assume the responsibility of a true Christian. We will need to drink the cup of hardship, self-denial, and sacrifice. As Christians we must embrace the responsibilities of serving others and putting those in need ahead of ourselves.

DAILY CHALLENGE: What is the cup which awaits you?