THE CROSS
by hazel williams
“I must go now,” Jesus said to His disciples.
He was sending the Comforter (The Holy Spirit), to explain all things, to reveal all things and to convince and convict us. He will be our Counselor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener and our Spirit of Truth.
Jesus prayed for Himself. He prayed for the disciples. He prayed for us, who were yet to come.
Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane, knowing that the Father had put everything in His hands, saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.” Judas act of betrayal coming to pass. Peter, in an act of love for Jesus and anger against those who dared to come up against Him, cuts off the ear of a soldier. Jesus, in an act of compassion, restores the ear and the soldier becomes a believer. Judas realizing what he has done and for how cheaply he was bought, hangs himself and thus establishing Potter’s Field, for unknown people that die.
It’s Thursday, the Day of Preparation, the day before the Passover. They have until sundown.
Jesus being questioned about who He is, being sentenced to die, even though they know He is innocent. Being mocked and beaten. Beaten so badly, He is unrecognizable. Ridiculed, laughed at and yet still standing and not wavering. Knowing He has the power to stop it, but not doing so. Desiring to fulfill the scripture. His love for us and wanting eternal life for all of us, is keeping Him going.
Carrying the cross. Stumbling and falling, knowing what He has to do. Determined. Pain. The heat from the sun, beating down on His body. Sweat getting in His open wounds. Still He goes on. Blood from the crown of thorns falling in His eyes. Getting weaker with each step He takes.