Jesus’ disciples James and John were often called the “Sons of Thunder.” We remember their fiery zeal, their closeness to Jesus, and their role in the early church. But behind these two brothers stood a woman whose faith, ambition, and devotion shaped their journey: Salome, their mother.
Salome appeared in several Gospel accounts, sometimes in the background, sometimes stepping forward with boldness. She was the wife of Zebedee, a fisherman in Galilee, and a devoted follower of Jesus. She often traveled with Jesus, supported His ministry, and was present at key moments—including the crucifixion and the empty tomb.
Salome’s Ambition
In Matthew 20:20–21, Salome boldly approached Jesus with an outrageous request: “Grant that these two sons of mine may sit, one at Your right hand and the other at Your left, in Your kingdom.” This request seems out of place because it came in the middle of Jesus’ teaching that predicted His painful death and resurrection.
At first glance, this request might seem selfish and prideful. But if we look deeper, we see a mother who truly believed in Jesus’ eternal kingship. She wasn’t asking for her sons to be wealthy merchants or respected rabbis. She was asking for them to be close to the Messiah in His eternal reign. Something we all want.
Jesus used this moment to teach about what greatness in the kingdom really meant. He explained to her and the disciples that, “whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant… Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to give His life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:26-28)
Salome’s Faith
Salome’s story doesn’t end with that bold request she made. In Matthew 27:55–56, we find her at the foot of the cross. Most of Jesus’ disciples and followers had fled in fear, but she stayed with her son, John, Jesus’ mother, and some other faithful women. She watched as her Lord, and her sons’ friend and teacher, suffered and died a gruesome death.
This moment speaks volumes about her loyalty. She didn’t just follow Jesus when miracles were happening, and crowds were cheering. She followed Him to the place of pain, loss, and apparent defeat. Her presence at the cross reminds us that true discipleship is not about convenience—it’s about commitment.
In Mark 16:1, Salome is among the women who brought spices to anoint Jesus’ body after His burial. She was one of the first to hear the angel’s announcement: “He is risen! He is not here.” Imagine her emotional journey—grief at the cross, devotion at the tomb, and then the shock and joy of the news of the resurrection. Salome’s faith carried her through the darkest hours to the brightest day.
Salome’s Life Lessons
Salome’s witness to us combines great devotion and great boldness, both as a mother and as a servant to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Here are three lessons Salome’s life can teach us:
Boldly Bring Your Children to Jesus: Salome raised her sons to look for the coming Messiah. So when Jesus came, they recognized Him immediately. As parents, mentors, and friends, we are called to bring the people we love to Jesus through prayer, encouragement, and by our example, especially to our children.
Pray Boldly but Surrender Fully: Her request for her sons’ positions in the kingdom was outrageous. But Jesus’ response reminded her, and us, that following Him means embracing His path, even when it leads to suffering. We can freely bring our boldest requests to God, but we must also trust His wisdom in how He answers.
Stay Close in the Hard Times: Salome didn’t abandon Jesus when things became dangerous and painful. She stayed near Jesus even when He hung on the cross. She shows us that, in our greatest trials, we must choose to remain close to Christ, even when we may not fully understand His plan.
Joy For Your Journey,
Andy