“What do you want me to do for you?”  Mark 10:36

 These are words of Jesus to the disciples James and John.  I wonder how we might respond if we heard Jesus ask us this question.  “What do you want me to do for you?”  I bet we would respond with a request that would ease a difficulty or heartache or worry in our lives.

Jesus also says something like “if you ask in my name and it will be done for you”.  Then how come we don’t always get what we want?  I think the key is to align our hearts with God’s heart so that the spirit leads us to ask for the things consistent with the holy desire of God.

How would you respond to Jesus asking you what you want?  Maybe, more importantly, is to ask: How would you respond if you received from God what you don’t deserve?  That is called grace.  Look around and reflect on all that God has already given you.  How do you respond to this goodness and grace?

Of course, bad things happen, and we all know pain and suffering.  However, we also have assurance that God is with us through whatever we face.  God is a giving God.  Giving Jesus to offer us new life.  Giving us the Holy Spirit as an advocate, comforter, and guide.  God gives and gives and gives.

We might not get what we want and how we want it. But we are blessed beyond measure.  How will you respond to the goodness and grace of this giving God? 

Blessings,

Pastor Rafe