Journey Through the DesertSýnishorn

The Grand Gesture

Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” (Matthew 4:5-6)

The scenery has changed. Jesus is now at the top of the temple, confronted with another temptation.

He faces what Jo Saxton calls the “Grand Gesture.” The grand gesture occurs when we are presented with the opportunity to do something “grand,” which will bring recognition and approval from others.

This “grand gesture” is a shortcut, an easy way for Jesus to show that He is the Son of God. He wouldn’t have to “prove” anything or go through all the hardships; He could even skip the cross. Who would want to harm the Son of God, right?

He had to perform this feat in front of all the worshippers below. It would bring about instantaneous popularity and adoration. The people would crown Him King.

Did you notice something different this time? He came with a ‘word.’ It’s almost as if he is echoing Jesus’ response. . . “it is written.”

He, too, knows the power of the Word, yet he will intentionally misquote or take it out of context to lure one into his trap.

Let’s look at Psalm 91, verses 11 to 13.

For he will command his angels concerning you

to guard you in all your ways.

On their hands, they will bear you up,

lest you strike your foot against a stone.

You will tread on the lion and the adder;

the young lion and the serpent you will trample underfoot.”

Do you notice the part he left out? “You will tread on the lion and the adder; the young lion and the serpent you will trample underfoot.” He avoided this part. I wonder if he hoped he could be successful in his temptation and avoid getting trampled underfoot.

Reflection:

What are we tempted to do for approval, acceptance, or recognition?

Shortcuts are an attempt to derail us and get us off the path God has laid out for us.

What shortcuts lay before us? What temptations lay before you?

What do we miss? Who do we miss when we give in to the temptation of grand gestures?

Imagine Zacchaeus without that encounter with Jesus.

Jairus.

The lepers.

The woman with the issue of blood.

Mary Magdalene.

Me.

You.