Today we read the third and last prediction of Christ's suffering, death and resurrection as told by Mark. And, as in the first two, the disciples show no understanding of Jesus' words. In fact, they do not want to hear them. On this occasion, two of them seem to respond to Jesus' saying that he would rise from the dead. In that case, maybe there is a future - but in another world. So, going behind the backs of their companions, they try to 'book' the two best places beside Jesus "in his glory." They are quickly put in their place. Not that their companions are any better. They are angry with James and John for going behind their backs; for they want exactly the same thing. It is now time for them all to be put straight. So Jesus tells them that real greatness does not consist in having pots of money, high status or lots of power. Jesus, setting the example himself, points them in a completely different direction. The greatest are those who express their love for their brothers and sisters by service. Service is love in action. It is the same message that we got in Monday's Gospel. Greatness is not in having; greatness is in sharing.