God's Gospel Truths
Matthew 16:21-28
From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.
Pondering Point
Jesus was not surprised by the events that transpired the night of his arrest. He was not surprised by the actions of the chief priests, or of Judas in the betrayal, or of the other disciples in running away.
One might claim he was in total control (likely a true statement) but this might be better characterized as being in total compliance with the will of the Father. He knew that the path to the cross was the plan from the beginning – and was OK with letting it play out for our sake.
Prayer
Father God, You had a cross designated for Your Son Jesus to experience, a crucifixion that would bring life to the world through His sacrifice. He embraced that path to the cross with passion and love for us, and with a spirit submitted to Your will. Jesus has taught us that we also have a cross to bear; Enable us by Your Holy Spirit to embrace Your plan for us with a passion and love for You, and with a spirit submitted to Your will.
In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry
To wind down this chapter, let me just speak from the heart. I deeply enjoy the practice of Sabbath. For me it's not a legalistic hangover from some fundamentalist shtick but a practice from the way of Jesus, a delivery system for life.
J.M. Comer, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, pp. 172, 173