Devotional Series: Reflections on the Life and Words of Jesus
As we begin Holy Week, I am struck by one thing throughout Jesus’ ministry. Jesus trusted completely and entirely in God the Father and his will. It is this trust that gave Christ the confidence and ability to remain silent throughout his ordeal and journey to the cross.
He was confident in what had been revealed to him about the disciples' betrayal and did not need to argue with them or prove that he would be right.
Mark 14: 30-31 - “What I’m about to tell you is true,” Jesus answered. “It will happen today, in fact tonight. Before the rooster crows twice, you yourself will say three times that you don’t know me.” But Peter would not give in. He said, “I may have to die with you. But I will never say I don’t know you.” And all the others said the same thing. (NIrV)
Whilst he trusted in God, this did not prevent him from asking God to change his plan in Gethsemane.
Mark 14: 35-36 - He went a little farther. Then he fell to the ground. He prayed that, if possible, the hour might pass by him. “Abba, Father,” he said, “everything is possible for you. Take this cup of suffering away from me. But let what you want be done, not what I want.” As the guards approached him for his arrest, he accepted God’s will. Not only did Jesus accept God’s will but he also prevented those around him from obstructing it. (NIrV)
In the presence of Pilate and the chief priests, he never did or said anything to make them alter their decision or in turn the plans of the Father.
Mark 15: 3-5 - The chief priests brought many charges against him. So Pilate asked him again, “Aren’t you going to answer? See how many things they charge you with.” But Jesus still did not reply. Pilate was amazed. (NIrV)
Instead, Jesus surrendered to what God had planned for him. He completely trusted that his fate and life were in the hands of the Father, despite what it looked like to him and everyone else around him. In his worst season, Jesus, the man, chose to believe that despite what it seemed, felt and looked like, God the Father’s plans were the very best thing for him. Jesus modelled total surrender to God for all of us to see that it is indeed possible.
As we reflect on the greatest expression of sacrifice and love this week, I am reminded that Jesus’ journey to the cross is the greatest surrender and obedience to God’s will. I am reminded of how I ought to respond to God’s plans and will for my life even when I don’t like how it looks. I am reminded that I can raise my objections as Christ did at Gethsemane. But, there comes a moment in my story when I should surrender as Jesus did to God’s plan. In that moment, I am not just trusting a process; I am trusting God.