I Would Have Run, Too

March 24, 2016/CathyChung/

Topics to Dig Into

Who is He?

What is God like? Who is this man Jesus? How can we understand the Holy Spirit?

The Visible God

God is present and active in our lives, often working through people and ‘coincidences’. Thank and praise Him!

Making it Practical

Following Jesus in today’s world can be challenging. But living according to Jesus’ teaching is incredibly worthwhile. Call it life-changing.

He Knows You

God’s love is unconditional. He knows our hearts and continually invites us into relationship.

Ah-Ha!

Learning about the culture and language of Bible times can reveal new meaning in familiar scriptures. Let’s call them ah-ha moments.

Then all the disciples deserted him and fled. Matthew 26:56 (NIV)

I would have run too.

When the soldiers arrested Jesus, I
would have saved my own skin. Not only am I conflict averse, I would have panicked in fear and confusion. In hindsight I’d regret my cowardice, but flee I would.

On Maundy Thursday, my church reenacts the desertion by the disciples. It’s my favorite service of the entire year. Favorite is an odd description for this somber drama, but it moves me deeply.

My heart is exposed. I am reminded of the ways I have failed God. I have ignored His guiding voice, missed opportunities to serve Him, and thought ill of His children. I have worshiped other gods, dishonored His name, and withheld forgiveness. I have failed to love others as Jesus commanded.

For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. (Romans 3:23)

Thankfully, I am not left in despair. By confessing that my sin put Jesus on the cross and believing that He died when it should have been me, I am forgiven. By drinking the juice representing His cleansing blood, I become pure in God’s eyes and freed from guilt. By eating the bread representing His body, I recommit myself to His way and His service.

Hallelujah!

Would you have run in Gethsemane? Will you now come kneel at the cross? (tweet this)

#SeedsOfScripture #Gethsemane #sin #cross

1 Comments

CHERRILYNN BISBANO on March 25, 2016 at 1:55 PM

Me too! I would have been the first out of there. Thank you for this poignant post. Happy Resurrection Day!

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