Good Friday should bring to mind the words that ring out in memoriam penned by the writer of Hebrews who challenged persecuted believers to “…consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.” (Heb. 12:3, AV). For when we truly consider the passion of Jesus Christ, our tests and trials pale in comparison to the afflictions our Lord endured on that fateful day upon which He was crucified. I believe that His greatest struggle did not take place once He was on the cross; for when He arrived at Calvary, He was already committed to sufferings of the cross. Indeed, although He could have called forth a legion of angels to deliver Him from the cross, He did not because He had already surrendered His will to the Father.
The cross symbolizes the power of a surrendered will that gave way to the will of the Father.
Dr. Luke records Jesus’ offering His will up to the Father. Jesus did this fully understanding that the offering of Himself as a blood sacrifice would be of no efficacy until He first offered up His will. Luke 22:42 records Christ praying on this wise: “…Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.” But even then, He would need help in performing the task of Calvary. Hence, the readers are told by Luke in the very next verse these words: “And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.” (Luke 22:43, AV). May we be comforted this Good Friday and amid the dilemma of the hour, understanding that if we surrender our will, the ability to overcome anything becomes possible. God will send us strength from heaven to endure our greatest trial and conform to His will.
May we all thank Jesus on this day for His supreme sacrifice.
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