Another Voice

Julie Girards, Minister to Children

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As we observe the season of Lent, it is a good idea to look at how Jesus spent his last bit of time on earth before the first Easter, since he is our ultimate role model. Jesus knew his time on earth was short and that he was facing a difficult situation. He had spent the previous three years traveling, preaching to and healing the multitudes around the outskirts of Jerusalem. Now, with just a short time left, he entered Jerusalem and became more visible.

He began by assuring the public of his victory by riding into Jerusalem on a colt. After he reassured the public, he began to create controversy with the authorities by the things he said and did. He cleansed the temple; he confronted the religious leaders; and he told parables about the kingdom of God.

When he had disturbed enough of the religious leaders that they were ready to get rid of him, he retreated to spend his last night with his closest friends. He shared a meal, reinforced the idea of servanthood, and went to the garden to pray with them. Knowing what was about to happen, he asked God if there were another way, but rather than taking things into his own hands and doing what he wanted, he submitted to God’s difficult will instead.

When I am facing a difficult situation, rather than recognizing I can have victory through Christ, facing it head on and even hastening it by my confrontation like Jesus did, I tend to deny, avoid and drag my feet into it. When I get to the point of realizing it’s really going to happen, rather than spending time in prayer with my closest friends, I usually retreat and pout alone. The worst thing, however, is that if I can find an easy way out, I usually take it, even if it is not God’s will. 

If only I could be more like Jesus. Life may not be easier in the short term, but I would certainly set myself up for a glorious victory someday, which is what the promise of Easter is all about.