Freed from futility

To what are we referring when we say we are “saved?” What are we saved from? Certainly, we are saved from hell. We are rescued from the wrath of God. However, Peter emphasized a different aspect of salvation in his first sermon. He said, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation!” Following Jesus allows us to escape our corrupt culture. How else would we even be aware of our error except by the Spirit of Christ and his Word? He is our guide to a different way of life. His way is healthy, productive, and purposeful. By following him we free ourselves from futility and make our lives count for the kingdom.

The weight of what is written

When Jesus appeared to the disciples on the road to Emmaus he chose not to reveal his identity by means of his physical appearance. Instead, he explained himself using the Scriptures (Luk 24:27). One would think that the more convincing proof would be to show his face and his wounds. He wanted them to understand him through what was written by Moses and the prophets (Luk 24:44). Jesus was a master of the Scriptures and he wants us to be as well. He wants us to see him in the Bible (Joh 5:39). We have the same Scripture Jesus used to prove himself. Have you studied them? Are you convinced?

He has a name for me

After his resurrection Mary didn’t recognize Jesus until he called her by name. (Joh 20:16) There must have been something in the ring of his voice that resonated with her. Once she heard her name she had full recognition and the memories of their relationship came like a flood. When Jesus returns, he will give each of his followers a new name known only to the two of them. (Rev 2:17) I believe this is a term of endearment. A sign of the close, personal relationship they share. To his followers, Jesus is not just a historical figure, he is a friend with whom they enjoy daily fellowship. Can you hear him calling your name?

Hopelessly hard hearts

The thief crucified next to Jesus began by ridiculing him with the rest of the crowd (Mat 27:44), but in the end the Spirit prevailed. His heart was changed. He confessed that Jesus was Lord when he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (Luk 23:42) The Soldier in charge of crucifying Jesus was equally helpless against the onslaught of the Spirit. When he saw how Jesus died he said, “Truly this was the son of God.” (Mar 15:39) No matter how hard the heart may appear, it cannot withstand the call of the Spirit. Hopeless cases can turn on a dime when the Spirit moves. Keep praying for the hard hearted!

The herd mentality

Beware of group think. The religious leaders convinced the crowds to demand the crucifixion of Jesus (Luk 23:21). Pilate, though he knew Jesus was innocent, succumbed to the demands of the mob (Mat 27:24). The Soldiers, as a regiment, went above and beyond the call of duty, mocking and torturing Jesus rather than performing their simple but gruesome task (Mar 15:16-19). Each operated in fear of the group. They sensed that their survival depended on the herd. Though they knew Jesus had done nothing worthy of death, none had the courage to stand against the peer pressure. In what areas do I lack courage? How do I succumb to obvious evil in the face of the social norm? Lord, grant me the courage of my convictions.

The betrayer betrayed

When Judas realized his error he went back to the religious leaders seeking to rectify the situation. He found an institution that had used him and now had no more use for him. He said, “I have sinned.” They replied, “That is your problem.” (Mat 27:3-4) For Judas there was no other recourse. He had betrayed his Lord and the system had betrayed him. He hung himself in utter despair. Do not sell your soul to any human institution. They are cold and heartless. They will use you and discard you. Forgiveness and restoration are found in relationships, not religious organizations.

Willing but weak

The disciples could not overcome their sleepiness to stay awake and pray with Jesus for even one hour. Jesus said, “The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Mar 14:38) Indeed the apostles continued to struggle to bring their flesh in line with their spirit’s desires. They all fled for their lives when Jesus was arrested. Peter went on to deny that he knew Jesus. Paul confessed that he too was caught up in the struggle of flesh vs. spirit (Rom 7). Only Jesus is qualified to be the sacrificial lamb. The rest of us, even if we had the strength to offer our lives, would die for our own sin. We cannot do what Christ did for us (Rom 10:6-7). That is why we must trust in his work on our behalf.