Knowing James and John wanted something of him Jesus asked, “What do you want me to do for you?” The modern equivalent of this question is “What can I do for you?” We hear it on all sides; for many it is a routine way to answer the phone. “Hello, this is Frank.” “Yea, what can I do for you?”

After a weekend together on retreat, a participant and I were at a dinner party. Looking at me seriously he said, “You do for a lot of people. I’m wondering if there is anything I can do for you. Just let me know, no matter what, and I’ll try to do it.” The offer shocked me. Never had anyone, in as intent a manner, made an offer like that. I was touched and tried to reply with sensitivity and appreciation.

“I’ve never had an offer like that. This is a first, and I’m very moved. Let me think on it for …