THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12
Scripture: Mark 10:39

James and John replied to Jesus’ question, “We are able.” Jesus’ question was, ‘Can you drink the cup and be baptized with the baptism.’ Their answer was very simply, ‘We can.’ Jesus’ reply was, “You will indeed drink the cup that I drink, and with the baptism I am baptized with you will be baptized;…” Before James and John realized what had transpired, they had committed to the preparational price tag that went with two of the highest positions in all of eternity. And all that transpired before they could find out whether or not the position was even available. They asked, then committed to pay the price before insuring the position was open. I am sure they were stunned to find out the positions were filled. Somehow it seems the process, as it unfolded was a bit one-sided. Could they really endure the cup and the baptism, or did they just think they could? I certainly would not want to find myself in that position of committing to pay a preparational price tag for something that was not even available. And yet, as this unfolded, that is exactly what happened to them. I wonder at what point they began having second thoughts. Are we having second thoughts about the things we have asked for?