On the Shoulders of GiantsSample

Someone Had to Do It

Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” -Matthew 26:39

Six-year-old Ruby Bridges’ first day at William Frantz Elementary in Louisiana was historic. Ruby’s escorts were armed US marshals. An angry mob of men and women nearby, protesting desegregation, hurled hate-filled insults at the child.

Seeing images of this little Black girl facing a White mob, we might wonder why Ruby’s parents allowed their innocent child to walk into those circumstances. Yet, someone had to integrate the school, and Ruby was assigned the task. Attending school was dangerous, no rescue from that would come, and no one else would attend in her place.

This was a pivotal moment in her life, and America.

When humanity needed the Savior, Jesus understood His assignment. Though suffering and humiliation of crucifixion loomed, Jesus prayed in the garden of Gethsemane, “My father if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me” (Matthew 26:39).

Despite Jesus’ appeal, the Father did not change the plan or alter the outcome. Ruby followed Jesus’ approach, recalling later in life: “Somehow, it always worked. Kneeling . . . and talking to the Lord made everything okay.”

Enduring hate, betrayal, and pain aren’t easy, especially when we have a choice to avoid it. A brave six-year-old and her parents reflect the mindset of Jesus when He conceded, “not as I will, but as you will” (v. 39). That changed the course of humanity.

May we strive to be as willing to bring about change.

Anthony Cobbs

What is a struggle you may need to take to God in prayer?

God, help me to handle adverse situations, including those I don’t want to endure.