Scripture
No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.”
Reflection
Let it be known that Jesus laid down his life by his own accord. Though part of the plan of the Father, Jesus fully accepted this mission and voluntarily submitted to the Father’s will. Secondly, he knew even in advance that this mission would be both the taking of and the raising back up of his life as commanded by the Father. So why then the struggle in the Garden of Gethsemene? In previous passages this week, we’ve read about the goodness of being in an abided relation with the Father. Jesus had never known anything other than this goodness until those moments where he experienced the sin of the world cast upon him. For it was never about the pain of death, but the pain of not being in the presence of the Father that would so unbearable to Jesus. Though Jesus knew he would rise again he also knew of the real pain and suffering it would be to bear the sin of the world and have the Father turn his face away, if even for just a moment.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage
- How will you respond/apply God’s Word today?
- Whom will you share with today’s passage or takeaway?
Prayer
Think of anyone you know who is an essential worker and spend time praying for their specific needs. You could even message them and ask if they would like prayer for anything in particular. Pray for energy and perseverance for essential workers as they continue to serve in their contexts
