“I Have Told You These Things …”
After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. 2 For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. 3 Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. 4 I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do. And now Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began. ” John 17:5
There was no mistake. Jesus was choosing to be arrested. Instead of trying to escape, Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, ’Who is it that you want?” (John 18:4) When they responded “Jesus of Nazareth” (John 18:5), he stepped forward and replied “I am he.” They drew back and fell to the ground.” John 18:6
Why? Why would God allow his Son to endure this excruciating pain and all that was to follow? The brutality, humiliation, and inconceivable pain and torture. He went willingly, laying down His entirety for all. This was no common man. This was the King of the Universe. He cries to His Father as He is placed upon the cross… “Father, they don’t know. They don’t know…” Heaven sheds a single, mighty tear. This Man was completely innocent, completely holy ~ and paying the price for others…for you and me.
This Easter, remember there is “life” through the Resurrection. There is no way to negotiate the meaning. It basically asks “What will you do?” It simply requires confessing your belief in Jesus Christ and the saving power of his death and resurrection.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
Wishing you all a very blessed and “life-saving” Easter!
Love, Nanette💜