Sometimes we do not know that for which we ask. We know what we want so we hasten to ask for it. We think of all the things we would do if we could get that great windfall, that position, that place. Really? Two disciples used their mother to try to get two places at Jesus’ right and left. I am sure they pictured themselves on thrones complementing the Messiah’s throne. They did not know that His throne was a cross from which He would establish, and rule His kingdom. What a shocker! Our asking, and all of our praying, will never bypass the cross.
“Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came to him with her sons, and kneeling before him, she asked a favor of him. And he said to her, “What do you want?” She said to him, “Declare that these two sons of mine will sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom.” But Jesus answered, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink?” They said to him, “We are able.” Matthew 20:20–22 (NRSV)
