Don't Take the Easy Way Out

 ^"Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?”           -Matthew 26:53-54

I always find it amazing---and proof that the Bible is God’s living Spirit-filled Word—that I can be struck to the core by a familiar passage, despite having read the passage dozens, if not hundreds, of times in my life. In today’s passage I was struck by Jesus’ commitment to living out God’s will, despite having an easy way out. He had armies of angels on hand, at his command, ready and able to wipe out anyone who laid a hand on him, and yet Jesus held back. He knew that his Father, our God, had a plan and—despite the difficulties of that plan—Jesus was committed to seeing that plan through.

I think the reason this passage spoke to me so deeply is that I know that anytime I find myself experiencing difficulty or pain or injustice, I find myself immediately crying out to God to fix things. I don’t seek his will in my circumstances. I don’t trust in him or his timing. Quite simply, I expect God to move at my convenience, rather than putting myself at the ready to move at His will.

I am ashamed to admit that my expectation of God  more often involves him “granting me wishes” like a genie, than me granting His wishes like a servant or obedient child. I am more likely to cry out with anger and bitterness to God in my times of pain, than to humbly persevere while whispering “Your Will Be Done”.

I am so thankful for Christ’s example. I am grateful for his love, perseverance, and perfect faith. Jesus experienced pain and suffering far beyond what most of us will ever experience---and on par with worst suffering this world has to offer. In his pain, despite the injustice of what was happening to him, Christ never got angry at God, nor did he demand his way. He definitely asked God if there was any other way, but when the path was made clear, Jesus trusted his Father and followed through.

Can I bring myself to trust God like Christ did? Can I set aside my own desires for His? Can I set aside my own comfort and well-being for the sake of His mission? 

God, help me.