Ordinary 29

The first reading from Isaiah is taken from the "Servant Songs". The servant of the Lord will undergo suffering for God's sake. This is not a message we want to hear. We see it lived out in Jesus and His disciples, but would prefer that we not have to suffer any inconvenience.

The Gospel echoes the same message as the sons of Zebedee make a request of Jesus. The response is that they will share in His "Cup". Jesus then goes on to speak of "servanthood" for the sake of God.