08-25-19

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS

August 25, 2019

Scripture: Matthew 26:39

Then Jesus went a short distance farther and fell on his face and prayed, “My Father, if it’s possible, take this cup of suffering away from me. However—not what I want but what you want.”

Thought for the Day: This morning, we will be talking about the idea of possible. What is possible? What is attainable? What is waiting to be unleashed? Of course, Jesus uses the word in search of an escape clause. It is one of the more poignant illustrations of Jesus’ humanity. I think we can all read the story leading to his brutal execution and say to ourselves: I would have been even more direct. Where is the side exit because I am out of here! The word we translate as possible is more than just some crazy wish. The word suggest power, some real leverage is making it happen. But it also speaks of value and purpose. You might translate it as, “My Father, if there is some genuine value to me stepping away from this, may it be so. But it is less about my needs and more about the value you need to unleash.” Anytime we are trying to decide whether to give something away or make a sacrificial gift, the question is usually: How is this going to impact me? Jesus is turning it back on God and asking: How might my actions participate in unlocking and unleashing the God-possibility that is currently dormant and ineffective.

Prayer: Give me the courage to risk what is necessary to participate in what you, O Merciful God, are seeking to do. I am not looking to be a fan in the stands, but seeking to share actively in your good work. Amen.

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