ST.

JAMES: SON OF THUNDER

Our Lord gave to the Apostles (and brothers) James and John the
nickname Boanerges, or "Sons of Thunder," owing to their great zeal, fiery
temperaments and severe temper. In at least two places in Scripture, Jesus had to
rebuke them for their misplaced enthusiasm.

One instance involved their desire to punish those who would not welcome them.

When the days drew near for him to be received up, he set his face to go to
Jerusalem. And he sent messengers ahead of him, who went and entered a
village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him; but the people would not
receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. And when his
disciples James and John saw it, they said, "Lord, do you want us to bid fire
come down from heaven and consume them?" But he turned and rebuked
them. And they went on to another village. (Luke 9:5156)

Our Lord rebuked them for their desire to wreak vengeance on their enemies,
based on a flawed understanding of Christ's message: one of peace and mercy and
longsuffering. To God alone belongs the right to exact vengeance.

Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God; for it is
written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." No, "if your enemy is
hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him drink; for by so doing you will heap
burning coals upon his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil
with good. (Romans 12:1921)