STILL PRACTICING
As we continue our discussions of the disciples, the brothers, James and John, are the next two disciples to be considered. They are the second set of brothers that Jesus calls and, according to the synoptic gospels, they are the third and fourth disciples called. Because they are both bold and aggressive, James and John are known as the sons of thunder. Although these characteristics are not typically associated with the Way of Christ, these qualities are adapted in ways that prove to be quite useful.
In addition to being known for their suggestion that the entire village of Samaria be destroyed because the citizens would not welcome Jesus, James and John are also known for their request to sit next to Jesus when he is glorified. (In the gospel of Matthew, their mother makes the request of Jesus.) Such seemingly unbridled rage and thinly-veiled ambition should disqualify them from continuation as disciples. However, these qualities simply need to be directed by Jesus in ways that result in productive outcomes.
In an article entitled “What We Can Learn from Saints James and John—the Sons of Thunder,” Cheryl Hadley describes the spiritual journeys of James and John as simple examples of the process of maturity that everyone follows. Rather than malign them for being impetuous or overly enthusiastic, she notes the ways that most admirable qualities are discovered—in a raw form that requires patience, repetition and subtle correction before they can be fully appreciated. This reconceptualization of the journey to spiritual maturity reframes the strategies that can be used within the church to help people to be better positioned to serve.
James and John ultimately provide examples of discipleship which continue to lead many people to Christ through their zeal for the kingdom of God. The books that John wrote provide a lasting manual of a maturing passion that is manifested as love for the possibilities of humanity. Our well-intentioned blunders do not disqualify us for a position to follow Jesus. Instead, these mistakes are reminders that we are still on a journey toward the goal of being more like Christ.
We’ll see you in church and in class as we grow together.
In Christ,
Jon McCoy
