Who Brought the Thunder?

Scripture: These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”) ... Mark 3:16-17

Observation: There are two ways to interpret the renaming of James and John. It could be that as strong and confident men (as we know they were) they were collectively like thunder. Or it could be that ... Zebedee was like thunder and Jesus was referring to him.

IF the accurate interpretation is the latter, this would represent the only reference that I know of that indicates there was any sort of relationship between Jesus and Zebedee. This is peculiar given the fact that Jesus effectively upended everything about Zebedee's life. Over time, Jesus took away Zebedee's business partner (Peter) and his primary labor (his two sons), likely ruining his business, and eventually causing his wife to also leave their home (she is eventually among the followers in Jerusalem). However, we have almost no information about Zebedee's interactions with or attitude toward Jesus.

Application: In thinking about this ... I wonder ... did Zebedee not become a believer, becoming abandoned by his wife and children due to his lack of faith? Did he become bitter toward Jesus because of this, thus expressing anger and earning the nickname "thunder" as a result?

Or did Zebedee join his family and become a behind-the-scenes pillar of faith? As a fisherman, did he provide food and labor for the core group of followers, allowing his thunderous sons the time to learn at Jesus' feet and in that way serve God by serving his own children?

Or maybe he became the secret checkbook behind the ministry? Zebedee was a successful and prominent businessman (we are told he had several employees, and his sons were known by prominent leaders, implying he himself was prominent). Was Zebedee working back home in order to fund the ministry and give his sons and Jesus the financial freedom they needed to do God's work?

If so ... should Zebedee be my role model? As I have been shown, I am to be humbly supporting my wife and children so they may become strong church leaders. So I serve with my provision in their lives, and with manual work behind the scenes at church.  Maybe ... I should be honored if someday someone compares me to Zebedee.

Prayer: Lord, my thoughts today a pure speculation since I know almost nothing of Zebedee but for his name. That said, may I continue to serve you in humility, by serving my family who are all three strong models of faith for your church. Thank you for your guidance today.