The answer is: To sit on his right and left hand in the kingdom

Mark 10:35-37

Ah, that classic scene where James and John, the sons of Zebedee and fishing buddies of Jesus, try to score a power play! In Mark 10:35-37, they ask the Big Guy if they can sit on his right and left in his glory, clearly unaware of the possible eye-rolling that was happening among the other disciples. Imagine that table talk!

What’s intriguing here is that the request taps into a deep-seated desire for status and recognition, which is not uncommon in human history—local politics and national leadership bickerings come to mind! They clearly misunderstood the kingdom of God they were part of, viewing it from a worldly perspective of hierarchy. Jesus didn’t just let their request slide; he used it as a teaching moment. He asked them if they were ready to share in his baptism and sufferings, a clear nod to the trials and tribulations that come with true leadership.

Funny enough, Jesus later drills down on the concept of leadership by flipping our earthly understanding on its head—true greatness comes from serving others, not climbing. This theme echoes throughout the gospels! There's also an interesting nugget in ancient Jewish culture regarding "sitting next to the king." Those positions were highly coveted and symbolized access and influence. So their ambition was indeed the epitome of youthful zeal but lacked a mature understanding of Jesus' messianic vision. What a reminder that lofty ambitions can sometimes lead to backfiring!