It’s Alzheimer’s – It’s Time For Extraordinary LoveSample

What is in the Cup?

By Pastor Curt Seefeldt, Director of Church Relations at The Lutheran Home Association

In Mark 10, the Gospel writer records Jesus’ words as he was preparing his disciples for his final trip to Jerusalem. This journey would end with his arrest and crucifixion. Two of his disciples asked for a special favor. Jesus refused to grant it and he explained why he would not do so with this question: “Can you drink the cup I drink...?” (Mark 10:38).

Jesus was using a figure of speech that was common in Jewish culture. To “drink the cup” meant to accept something that was, among other things, extremely challenging and painful (Paustian, 2004). Jesus went on to tell the disciples that they could not do what he was about to do. He was about to suffer and die to pay for the sins of the world. As Savior of the world, the work was his and his alone. The disciples could only observe him as he carried it out on their behalf.

However, Jesus went on to say to all of his disciples, “You will drink the cup…” (Mark 10:39). He was talking about their future. It would present them with difficult challenges. For most of those listening, the future included dying as martyrs because of their witness for the Christian faith.

Christians today “drink the cup” as well. The cup contains everything that is our future. Some of it we will call good and some of it we will call bad. It will include some difficult challenges. However, we do not know exactly what they will be or when they will occur. If we look into the cup, we cannot see to the bottom. Are there bitter dregs? Are there sour berries? Are there still pieces of sweetness? Until we take the cup to our lips and drink it deeply, we simply do not know.

If God has placed Alzheimer’s disease in your cup, we know it will be your challenge. It will change your life dramatically, but no one knows exactly how. Nevertheless, we do know this: the Lord knows your needs and he walks with you. That is his promise. 

Prayer: 

Dear Jesus, stay with me! With dementia affecting me and those I love, I’m facing a challenging future. I don’t know exactly what to expect. However, I do know this: you promised you will never leave me or forsake me. As I drink the cup placed before me, stand with me. Help me stay focused on your promise which announces my sins and guilt are forgiven. As I experience my future, help me gain a new understanding of your love as you comfort me during my times of need. I pray to you because you have promised to hear me. Amen.