Subject: Cup Passed? |
Bible Note: Excuse me for butting it but I read most of this thread and had a thought to share that I have been pondering for some time. It is that Jesus asking that the cup be passed from him is like any prayer we pray when we are going through something we would rather avoid. "Is there any other way I can do this, God? I'm willing to do what you want, but do I have to go this way?" The answer from the Father was, "No. This is the only way." In this instance, Jesus fulfills Hebrews 4:15 -- "For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin." When God answers our prayers with "No..." we often/usually don't wait around to hear the rest of what he wants to say to us. Instead, we give in to our weakness and complain and mope. Jesus did not do this, however, but after receiving the answer to his prayer, he humbled himself and went to the cross -- not just obediently and dutifully, but enthusiastically, energetically and with muscularity. Compare how he underwent the mother of all anxiety attacks in the garden, but then once the arresting crowd arrives, he is virtually in charge of the whole operation leading up to the cross. The reason for his change of attitude is found in Hebrews 12:2-3: "For the joy set before Him he endured the cross...." What was the joy? "Consider him who endured hostility from sinful men so that you might not grow weary and lose heart." You were the joy. You were the answer to His prayer. You were His inspiration. |