Saint of the Day
St. James the Apostle
James, son of Zebedee and brother of John, was among the first disciples called by Jesus and belonged to the inner circle of three who witnessed the Transfiguration and the agony in Gethsemane. Together with his brother John they were called "Boanerges" — sons of thunder — by Jesus. James was the first of the Twelve to be martyred, beheaded by Herod Agrippa around AD 44. He is the patron saint of Spain, and the famous pilgrimage route the Camino de Santiago bears his name.
Scripture Reading
Mark 10:42-45
And Jesus called them to him and said to them, "You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Reflection
James and his brother had asked for thrones; Jesus pointed them toward towels. The feast of James, who was the first apostle to be martyred, is a reminder that he eventually did drink the cup — not the cup of power but of sacrifice. The kingdom Jesus builds is constructed through service, not dominance. Greatness in his economy always looks like a servant.
Prayer for Today
Lord, I bring before you now our soldiers who have been captured, and ask that You would uphold them with Your right hand.Be their rock in the midst of uncertainty and their light in the midst of darkness. Guard their hearts from fear and strengthen them according to Your Word. Cause them Lord, to lie down and sleep in peace for You alone are their safety. Surround them Lord with Your favor as a shield. Soften the hearts of those who watch over them and cause them to show compassion and mercy. Keep the hearts of our soldiers filled with hope, and guard them from despair. Be near to them Lord, for Your nearness is their good, and bring them back safely to their families. In Jesus mighty name, Amen.
Amen.