Real Hope: The Passion - Week 1Sample

The Passion Week 1 - Reflection

When Jesus prayed in the garden, ‘My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will’ (Matthew 26:39b), it’s easy to think that Jesus’ prayer may have been one of doubt. Could it be that it’s a prayer of re-commitment instead of weakness? That, in the full knowledge of what is to come, Jesus looked past the present and re-committed to God’s future.

The final tortured hours preceding Jesus’ crucifixion were no mystery to Him. He had spoken about these moments often. Few listened.

Jesus spoke of betrayal at the last supper. Yet, Judas still chose to execute his plan, doubtless believing his teacher would punish the soldiers and he’d keep the cash reward. As Peter was still denying Christ, he’d completely forgotten Jesus’ betrayal prophesy. ‘Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: ‘Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times’ (Matthew 26:75a). Peter had been told his future but let his fear of the moment crush him.

Jesus knew the Jewish leaders would judge him in a vain effort to preserve their momentary earthly power. He answered their charges (Luke 22:67) by directing them to God’s glorious future. ‘But from now on, the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the mighty God’ (Luke 22:69). God’s dominion outraged them.

Jesus knew that Pilate would see Him as innocent but would send Him to die because of Pilate’s own moral weakness (Mark 15:15). Jesus lived His entire life knowing what came next. Daily, He re-committed to looking through the present and fixing His gaze on His Father’s eternal future. Our eternal future.

Written by DWAYNE JEFFRIES

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