"Sharing the Load" (Galatians 6:1-10)

Preamble

There has been recent evidence of great teamwork here. One example has been Easter Sunday services in the park … with all the set-up and pack-up, as well as what has happened on the stage (in its preparation). A coalition of prayer-warriors, venue-bookers, song selectors, chair-movers, leaf-blowers, communion juice-pourers, coffee-monitors, song-sheet distributors (Blake, Cade & Seth), musicians, sound & recording technician, puppeteer, reader, speakers, communion stewards, welcomers, encouragers, and offering-counters.

Other examples have been: the Community breakfast with the local football/netball club … everyone pulling together to ensure a well-received event; getting around people who have been bereaved; home groups delving deep into God … in prayer for one of their number enduring a particular trial. Working together in harmony for the common good is what the church should be known for. They will know we follow Jesus by our love. Yet, we can always be built into a stronger team, just like what Paul was trying to achieve in Galatia.

Introduction

After Paul lists out the “fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-23), he concludes this letter with some practical applications of such fruit. What will this “fruit” look like in action? If we have love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control, then this will be evident within our interpersonal relationships! The “fruit of the Spirit” is demonstrated in concrete situations, as well as in how we go about living. And, as Paul is writing to church communities across Galatia, this all specifically applies most particularly to life in the church (but of course doesn’t only apply there).

Of course, life in the church is a great training ground for the sort of moral and ethical behaviour, that we need to take out into the world. In other words, if we can’t put the teaching of Jesus into action within the church, there is little hope that we can do so with integrity in the world. But, having said that, maybe this is NOT true of everyone. Some people have been so disillusioned in the church, maybe hurt by someone, that they seem to fit more comfortably in the broader community. But that state of affairs itself … would surely bring a critique to the church that we need to address. How can we be a better team?

Galatians Passage

Paul states here some great ideals, and this activity is surely achievable … when you factor in the presence of the Holy Spirit available amongst any Christian community. The overriding dynamics here … are … oneness, unity, mutual submission, acceptance, interdependence, teamwork, serving one another, and sharing the load. This is how you properly live in community. Later Paul came up with the concept of integrated body ministry, and shared that in his first letter to the Corinthians chapter 12.

But here, in the earlier letter to the Galatians, we see this same principle described in a different way (refer verses 3 & 4). If we ever have an overly important view of ourselves, such that we get disconnected from others, we have a deficient view of things. On the other hand, if we ever think we having nothing to offer, this is also wrong. We shouldn’t compare ourselves with anybody else, either feeling superior or inferior, because we are each unique – with a unique role to play … that no other person can play!

Our gifting and our role is decided by God, and we should simply bring these into the mix (where God’s Holy Spirit makes it all work together for the good). 1 Corinthians 12:7 reads, “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good” (NRSV). Or, The Message version reads, “Everyone gets in on it, everyone benefits”. 1 Peter 4:10 reads, “Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received” (NRSV). Or, The Message version reads, “Be generous with the different things God gave you, passing them around so all get in on it”.

There has been such an emphasis on personal salvation in the last century, that often the proper functioning of the people of God TOGETHER, has been almost forgotten – sometimes our default mindset too quickly says, ‘what can I get out of this’. Any experience of salvation, through the cross and Jesus’ resurrection … if it is real … must lead to discipleship, which centres around functioning redemptively amongst God’s people. Then, ‘on that day’, Jesus will say, “I know you” (Matthew 7:21-23)!

Let us not receive grace too comfortably, nor treat it too cheaply. In verses 7 & 8, we see a comparison between those who suit themselves, as against those who take on board the leading of the Spirit in their “sowing”. You see there, that the results are dramatically different! On one side, reaping “corruption from the flesh” (maybe, ‘the worst of worldly outcomes’), as against this glorious prospect … “reaping eternal life from the Spirit”.

Galatians chapter 6 shows how people in God’s church should be able to rely on one another, and also make a worthy contribution to one another. No one is just a receiver, or just a giver, we are a mutual bunch of givers and receivers – strengths being applied to weakness, and weaknesses being opened to strengths … while all of us walk in the Spirit of Jesus. If we have difficulties with anyone in the church community, then this would be a good kick-off point for an expression of love (C Osiek).

Community Ideals

In verse 1, we see that we should be gently restoring one another when we notice someone struggling or falling. They could be under continual temptation or falling into a bad sin habit. This is NOT a matter of criticism or judgment, but rather gentle, humble and loving restoration (pastoral care). At the same time, this is often NOT about ‘easy answers’ that just ENABLE someone to stay as they are (and not face up to the decisions they need to make). The verb used here (translated “restore”) is a medical term used in secular Greek for … ‘setting a fractured bone’. This is about repairing what is broken.

This is all an aid to ultimate healing. This is a ministry that should NOT be neglected, and may indeed save many from a descent from faith. Yet, as this is often a very difficult thing to do, and discern correctly, AND there is the possibility of getting caught up in some tricky areas – it is at times advisable to bring in mature experienced counsel. But all of us have the role and responsibility of looking out for one another, and detecting possible problem areas. We need to, of course, be careful about our agendas, and pure in our motives. We should also notice the log in our own eye, before the splinter in others!

In verse 2, there is the need to enter into the burdens that others carry and help them bear them. [Greek dramatist Menander wrote (300 years prior to Paul), “Accept all burdens among friends as common”.] When the burdens of life become simply unbearable for any member of a community, others can lighten their load by sharing those burdens, and thus enabling them to still stand.

This is how we fulfil the “law of Christ” – which seems to refer to the second part of the ‘great commandment’ … “love your neighbour”, and how Jesus lived this out himself so selflessly (leading ultimately to a remarkable act of self-giving). Paul sees the ‘cross’ … as the ultimate act of burden-bearing … to be emulated by Christ’s followers.

At first glance, people may see a contradiction between “bearing one another’s burdens” (v.2), and “each one carrying their own loads” (v.5). But what Paul means to say here (in verse 5), is that each of us has a load (or a ministry) to fulfil on behalf of others, which cannot be ignored. We can’t leave it to someone else, if it’s ours to do. Our “load” is actually … sharing the burdens of others.

When we get down to verse 9, Paul is well into thoughts around sowing and harvesting. We are challenged NOT to give up or get slack, even when we become weary (or begin to despair). Therefore, we are to persist even when results seem slim, or the “harvest” is delayed. We are also to persist if things get difficult, or there seems to be opposition coming at us. This verse seems to assure a “harvest” [eventually, in God’s good time] if we stay on track with God’s Spirit. The “harvest” will come in good time – but the time to “sow” is now! And the way to “sow” well … is together {“us, we, we”}!!

So we don’t give up; and we also don’t hold back, simply because others hold back. We don’t allow important things to remain undone. But at the same time, through either impatience or ego, we don’t too quickly jump into spots that are really for others, and thereby discourage their involvement. We look for how others may want, and need, to contribute; and encourage that, and mentor that. We will grow our ‘body ministry’, if we are always looking for appropriate others to share ministry activities with.

How then, do we survive the weight of this?? In worship of the God who works within us through the Holy Spirit to make us more like Jesus.

Conclusion

Verse 10 provides us with a very clear summary statement. Let us take up all the opportunities we have, and maybe look for a few more, to creatively contribute to the common good. First and foremost, Paul has the church community in view; but there is also a bigger purpose lying behind this. Never far from view is the wider context of our call into the local community and beyond. We start by ministering to one another in Jerusalem, so to speak, as we gather ourselves together. Then, together, we find productive ways of embracing and engaging with Judea, Samaria and the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8).

The watching world observes how we treat each other, to see if we are worthy enough in character … to be trusted to serve them!

We need a team view, where we are thrilled when others excel and grow; and then we can celebrate all the great outcomes together! We need to share the load of God’s mission – encouraging, teaching, leading, and allowing each other … to make their various Spirit-inspired contributions!!

1 Peter 4:11b in The Message version reads: “That way, God’s bright presence will be evident in everything through Jesus, and he’ll get the credit … as the One mighty in everything – encores to the end of time. Oh, yes!”

"Being Real" (Matthew 7:13-23)

Question

If I said … this message was entitled “being real”, what do you think would be included?

Introduction

We have recently celebrated the resurrection of Jesus. This should NOT just be something we think about once a year. This should NOT just be a matter of historical record. The resurrection of Jesus should NOT be just something we come to accept in our heads, but RATHER something that changes our lives. It is in the resurrection of Jesus that we should live every day – new life, new creation, new opportunities, new mindset.

A Serious Challenge

We see in Matthew Chapter 7:21-23, that there were people who might call Jesus … “Lord, Lord” (v.21) – but whom Jesus does NOT recognise. They say the word “Lord” twice, as if this might be more convincing, yet, it seems, have never really backed this up in their actions. They have even sought to do good, yet Jesus says, “I never knew you” (v.23). The key to being recognised by Jesus, and thus participating in the “kingdom”, is what??? Doing the will of the Father (v.21b).

We should have the prayerful and passionate words of Jesus (in the Garden of Gethsemane – just prior to his crucifixion) ringing in our ears – “Thy will be done”! The only thing that mattered to Jesus was doing his Father’s will (also e.g. when tempted in the desert).

Just saying the right words will never be enough. We can’t fool God … who sees into our heart. “On that day” (v.22a), when all is revealed (whenever that happens for us), when all pretences and disguises have been stripped away, what will remain … of value … in us? Michael Green wrote, “I fear that so much which passes as Christianity, will be shrivelled up in the day of judgment, and be found to be bogus and worthless”. [One can also refer to the even more caustic comments of Jonathan Bonk, cited in CJH Wright’s “The Mission of God’s People”, page 196.]

Knowing Jesus

How then does Jesus truly get to “know” us? We have seen that Jesus “knows” us … in our willingness to collaborate with God’s will (v.21b). So for us to be sure that Jesus “knows” us, we need to be putting out feet in the water of worship and service. We might say, that God only “knows” us, as He recognises Jesus in us; or perhaps, Jesus only “knows” us, when he sees a mirror reflection … of himself … in us. This all bids a deep relational connection with Jesus!

‘Being real’ is about all our beliefs, attitudes, words and actions all coming into alignment. This is not just a command, this is the way of salvation and the way of wholeness, and the way of fulfilment. This is the way of resurrection life.

We perhaps all have regrets in this area, and times of letting ourselves down. This could happen when wanting to be accepted means more than being true to who we are.

Context

What we are reading in Matthew 7, is the tail-end of Jesus ‘Sermon on the Mount’ teaching, that began with the ‘beatitudes’ and the ‘Lord’s Prayer’. Jesus is expecting his listeners, followers, disciples, to apply all his teaching to their daily lives. And surely nothing quite gets our attention as much as this – when Jesus replies to those who say to him, “Lord, Lord” – “I never knew you; go away from me, you evildoers”! That surely would tend to jolt us from any complacency!!

The “Narrow Gate” (v.13-14)                                

Let us consider the “narrow gate” in verse 13. This has NOTHING to do with being ‘narrow-minded’ … such that we judge others; and NOTHING to do with being exclusive … such that we reject those who don’t agree with us. The “narrow” gate is actually open to all, it’s just that so many (sadly) miss it.

The gate that leads to (real) life is “narrow” … why?? Because not everything fits through there. There are certain things that block our path through this “gate”, and thus inhibit life and inhibit growth. To enter through the right “gate”, some things have to be dropped off our backs. Certain distractions, wastages, self-indulgences and secret habits don’t fit through. Neither does hardheartedness, being judgmental, hatred or unforgiveness. Nor do large egos, the desire for power, control, personal influence or special status. Such things are too broad for the “narrow gate”. This is the sort of weight we need to lose!

Such things as these (e.g. indulgences, unforgiveness, ego) need a much wider “gate”, however, this wider “gate”, we read, “leads to destruction”. So, we don’t want to take that path, better to drop off these excesses. That wider “gate” lacks ethical and moral frameworks, and also lacks purpose. We can blindly follow the crowd through any old “gate” of popular opinion; or take the other “gate” – the one with the lighted lampstands!

We should ask ourselves the same question that is being put in verse 21. What serves healthy life? And, even more practically speaking, what serves God’s purposes and Kingdom objectives?

In John’s Gospel we also hear about a “gate” (John 10:9). Jesus says, “I am the gate”. So, again we see that … access through this “gate” and into (true) life, is through a personal relationship – a personal relationship with the risen Jesus … that changes everything about our life. We are still that unique personality, but everything else about us turns to the positive. We are hopeful, forward-thinking, creative and (most of all) forgiving. We become peace-makers in a world of strife! And, in so doing, we become aligned perfectly with God’s will.

Identifying the “False Prophets” (v.15-20)

If we can lead ourselves astray and thus (ultimately) miss the “narrow gate” – when we get to the next verses, we are confronted with the possibility of being led astray by others. Who do we listen to? Who do we trust? Who do we let lead us? Some people may seem to be on our side, but when it comes down to it … they are only on their own side. They want to justify their own ungodliness, by adding to their own adherents (and their influence over others).

If we want to know whether a certain person should be followed, or allowed to influence us in our opinions and behaviour, then what do we look at??? Their fruit (v.16a)! Their output!! We can look at where those particular lives are heading.

Here are some tests we can apply:

(i)                THE RELATIONSHIP TEST. Do we see the positive encouragement of others (based on a real desire for their growth and development)? Is there evidence of prayerful and practical support of others?

(ii)              THE TEAMWORK TEST. Do we see involvement in, and commitment to, the church community? Is there evidence of church-building activity, the use of spiritual gifts for the common good, a helpful level of sacrifice, collaborative worship and community mission?

(iii)            THE CHARACTER TEST. Do we see the ‘fruit of the Spirit’ evident? Which are??? Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity (goodness), faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22-3)? Faithfulness, for one, is not letting anyone down – not letting anyone become disappointed in you! Anything other than gentleness and self-control … doesn’t fit through the “narrow gate”!! The ‘fruit of the Spirit’ is indicative of Christlikeness!

Verse 19 is suggestive of our response … when we gauge that someone should NOT be leading us. We no longer allow them to influence us. For their behaviour does NOT measure up to Jesus. We should NOT be unduly influenced by those on a completely different road – we should rather be influencing them … concerning the road to Jesus.

Ultimately there is only One person to follow – Jesus. But there are others who have successfully modelled themselves on Jesus, and truly become his disciples, who can become our guides and mentors (in becoming more like Jesus). Who are they? We just need to carefully look at the fruit of their lives. Having said this, we should all, ourselves, be seeking to be worthy guides and mentors of others – all producing fruit worthy of our Lord.

Being Real (v.21-23)

This brings us back to those verses where we began (21-23). We might think we are on track, but are we really? Or are we just pleasing ourselves – while putting on some spiritual make-up? Are we truly linked into God, hearing His voice in Scripture, adhering to His guidance, following in His ways, and performing the particular roles He has given us? Disciples live under the discipline of their leader (and teacher).

We thought we were serving in the Lord’s name, but could it be we were pretending – not just fooling others, but also ourselves? There may have been ‘good works’ with reasonable outcomes (like we read in verse 22), but possibly NOT what we were meant to be doing. We could have been aiming at the public gifts, when we were meant to be serving in quieter practical ways!?

Conversely, we may have been hiding in the background (not making any waves), when we were supposed to be putting up our hands in new (and challenging) areas of ministry!? [Have we perhaps, neglected relationships with our brothers and sisters in the church.] Have we perhaps confused frenetic activity with focussed ministry? In any of these less-than-best situations, we were likely NOT listening to Jesus.

Conclusion

Words can be cheap; while actions reveal where we are really at! But those actions must be tied into, and emanate out of, our deep personal relationship with Jesus. In this way, all our beliefs, attitudes, words and actions come into perfect alignment; and can ably serve the will of God.

So … are we being real?

Easter Sunday message (Mark 16:1-8)

What do we do with the empty tomb? This is a pretty unusual state of affairs. Completely unique really! The empty tomb suggests that something NEW has happened. And if we ever feel stuck in any old way of life … that isn’t working for us, then we don’t have to feel that way anymore! We don’t have to remain stuck!! We can embrace this NEW opportunity … that the empty tomb represents. But will we?

The women who went to the tomb that Sunday, to anoint the body of Jesus with spices (according to custom), still weeping over their loss, were wondering how they would ever get past the huge stone that had been placed in front of the entrance. However, they found the stone had already been rolled back. Then they were told, by this mysterious figure in white, not to be alarmed, because something wonderful had happened. The women heard that their friend Jesus, who had been crucified, is no longer here in the tomb, because, “He has been raised”. These women were told to go and tell the disciples all about this!

But would they? We are informed, in the Gospel of Mark, that, at least for a while, these women said nothing!!! The women didn’t roll on … they hesitated. The reason given for this silence … was fear. Fear of what? The unknown? Change?

I guess we would concede that what had happened, over the last few days, was all a bit terrifying. It was, to them, all so unexpected. Their beloved Jesus had been tortured, and then killed on a hideous Roman cross, just a couple of days earlier. No-one can be fully prepared for something like that. His body had then been entombed, with a big heavy stone protecting the entrance. They had found so much love, acceptance and hope in Jesus, and then this was all dashed. They felt a deep sense of disappointment and loss.

What were they expected to believe?! They were expected to believe that Jesus had been raised from the dead, had gone ahead of them to Galilee, and wanted to meet up with all his followers there. Pretty amazing! And many of us have come to know that this is TRUE! This is exactly what happened. These women, and all the other disciples, would spend the next 40 days with Jesus, asking questions and dealing with their fears and doubts. And as we read the New Testament, we discover how truly convinced they became about Jesus, many giving their lives over to sharing their faith.

Now it’s over to us! We have had around 2,000 years to get used this idea. And Christians across the centuries have indeed come to believe that God raised Jesus from the dead. The perfect sacrifice of Jesus for our sins, was vindicated in his resurrection. The worst that evil could throw at God, crucifying His Son, was incredibly transformed into the path of forgiveness and salvation. As Jesus forgives us and cleanses us from the cross, he draws us, in his resurrection, into a new experience of life. Jesus has beaten death, and opened up all sorts of new life possibilities for each of us. Death does not have the final say. Death is now but a thin line on an eternal journey.

But the question is, how do we experience this NEW resurrection life? What do we need to do?? Faced with the truth of the resurrection of Jesus, do we go on the same way as we have always done, or, do we consider what ‘new life’ might look like for us? Are we thinking that things could very well be better for us? Especially if we had a friend like Jesus on-board! I invite you to consider various areas of your life that might need a re-tune!

Do we need to jump off the fence, and give our life over to Jesus? What does this even mean?? It means accepting that what Jesus did on the cross was for me. Jesus took my burden of guilt to the cross and dealt with it there. There is a gift there to be received and unwrapped … just like you have to unwrap the foil off the Easter egg … to get to the nice chocolate. So, if I put up my hand, and accept this act of mercy on my behalf, I’m then ready for God to start working in my life. The old gets stripped away, and the new begins to emerge.

Sometimes, this all seems too good to be true. Too easy! Too out-there!! But it’s real!!!

Sometimes, we have given up, and we think things can’t change (for the better). Unfortunately, this means that the message of new life can become too easily rejected, or, be missed altogether. Our ears can be blocked to positive possibilities. People stay where they are. The great possibilities of change could be lost. We listen to the wrong voices. The problems remain, the burdens get heavier … and they often still have to be handled alone. In some ways, the Jesus-following life is not easy, because all the issues don’t resolve themselves overnight (as much as you want them too). But then, on the other hand, all you have to really concern yourself with … is one step at a time, with Jesus by your side.

Sometimes people, for many reasons, have become hardhearted or heavily distracted by material things. Sometimes, the old accustomed way of life, is just more comfortable … like some of our favourite old clothes. But we would have to think seriously whether this is getting us anywhere, or are we wasting our one chance of life on earth. Day after day … same old issues, disappointments linger, hurts abound, bitterness develops (to seriously worrying levels). There is another way!!                                 

[So sadly, some people have suffered much abuse and trauma, or suffer under tremendous physical and emotional difficulties. God is reaching out in compassion to you, whether you feel that right now or not, and the resurrection of Jesus has brought hope closer.]

Referring back to those who were around at the time of the resurrection – the early followers of Jesus. They were all seriously deflated and distraught at Jesus’ death. The disciples had scattered. But, when they came to understand the magnificent thing that had happened – for them, this turned defeat … completely into victory. They had not understood why Jesus had to die. We know now it was about our salvation. But back then, they just knew, that what had seemed all over and lost, had now been put back right. Their dear friend who had been killed on a cross, was back amongst them – and there was hope in the world again. This was a dramatic turnaround that they came to celebrate, and then gave their lives completely over to.

The risen Jesus is waiting for us, arms wide open. Jesus wants to rescue us, hang out with us, guide us in life, give us NEW purpose. And this is not just for us to enjoy personally. The resurrection of Jesus is much bigger than that. The power of Jesus’ resurrection is intended to reach into every sphere of society and culture. N.T. Wright has written these words:

The message of the resurrection is that this world matters! That the injustices and pains of this present world must now be addressed with the news that healing, justice, and love have won. Easter means that in a world where injustice, violence and degradation are endemic, God is not prepared to tolerate such things—and that we will work and plan, with all the energy of God, to implement the victory of Jesus over them all.

Today, resurrection Sunday, is all about the ‘new’! A bit like ‘new year’, but a whole lot better; because it packs a much bigger punch … with all sorts of power and possibilities behind it. In fact, the full capacities of the God who created the heavens and the earth and everything everywhere (out of nothing) … is available to us! This beautiful magnificent setting, we are in today, reminds us of God’s brilliance. If God can make all this, and also raise Jesus from the grave – what can he do for me, and for us!!

Many of us here, will be able to say, that the resurrection of Jesus is the greatest event in world history! This can be proved … as it makes such a dramatic difference in the lives of so many people today.

“Living God, may we have the eyes to see, the ears to hear, and the hearts to believe. May we know that Your love has been poured out over the events of Easter. May we see that our burdens have been lifted at the cross, and that we can gain new life at the empty tomb. Show us Lord Jesus how we might respond to your resurrection today, so that we might best participate in your plans for the world. Amen.”

Good Friday message & prayers (Mark 15:27-32)

People mocked Jesus, and yelled out at him, “Save yourself … come down from the cross” – “He saved others, he cannot save himself”. This was of course, completely missing the point! To actually save others, Jesus would have to go through with this remarkable act of loving sacrifice. Jesus could NOT save himself, if he wanted to truly save others. It was precisely by NOT saving himself, that Jesus was able to save others (Dickson). No greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends (John 15:13). And despite all this mocking and torture, and the rejection and betrayal that came earlier, Jesus would lay down his life for all these people. Jesus was heard to say from this cross, “Father forgive them , for they don’t know what they are doing”! This cross, this act of grace, is all about forgiveness – bringing the possibility of forgiveness to us – so that we can live as forgiven people (which will include forgiving others).

Humanity had got to the point, where they would need this ultimate act of sacrifice – to get past their guilt, shame and brokenness. There was a huge roadblock here. All the detours just went round and round, and there never was any other way back onto the right road. If there could be a way where sins could be forgiven, guilt removed, shame vanquished and brokenness healed – then the whole world could be changed for the better … one life at a time. If people could get past their mistakes and failures, receiving and offering forgiveness, then there would be a chance for reconciliation to occur within relationships. People could experience true peace and discover intimate relationship with God; and, instead of making situations worse, become creative peace-makers. Lessons could be learned on the path to spiritual fulfilment. This was the vision of the cross, and the view from the cross!

When Jesus spoke of destroying and rebuilding the temple (v.29), he was really talking about how the (spiritual) fabric of humanity had to transformed and rebuilt. And NO OTHER course of action would work … to achieve God’s goals of reconciliation … only suffering servanthood. God came to earth to show us what Divinity was about – a deep desire for humanity to live into the potential of the original creation. This involved taking all of our burdens to the cross. Jesus came down from heaven to minister and teach, then down further … into the saddest level of human behaviour, where he would die in the worst way possible (Austin). This unprecedented act of service, was taking upon himself the sins of the whole world – past, present and future, to the extent of suffering a torturous beating and an excruciating death on a Roman cross.

Everyone misunderstood what God’s Messiah would be like. NOT the all-conquering hero to (simply) liberate them from Roman rule – this being just the stuff of personal convenience wish-lists … no real change enacted there. NOT a commander, who would jump down from the cross wielding a sword, and taking over the government. But, totally the opposite to this. Attracting hearts open to change. Wanting voluntary followers. Bringing healing to the spirit, and salvation to the soul. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me”, Jesus quoted three years earlier, “because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour” (Luke 4:18-19, Isaiah 58:6, 61:1-2).

And so, Jesus WILL die … on that cross! He WON’T save himself, for he is set on saving others. Real faith was not going to happen, if Jesus just came down from that cross in some spectacular display. True “seeing and believing” (v.32) will come through understanding what was really happening here. Here … Jesus was dying for the world God loved, in the hope that this would mean a new beginning for individual lives, and better futures for communities all across the earth. Does the story end here (at the cross)? No! But while we are here, we need to ask ourselves how we should respond!

How should we respond to what Jesus has done for us? For some, it may be kneeling at the foot of the cross and accepting the grace of God into your lives – having been lost, now you are found (by Jesus). We all need to know this Jesus. For others, there may be the need for a statement of recommitment and refocus, where life has become slightly pear-shaped, or distracted by other endeavours. For those who already know Jesus (as Saviour, Friend and Lord), you may need to grow in your capacity to forgive others – and strength for this also comes from appreciating this gift on the cross (and kneeling below it). Whatever the reason, wherever we are in life, let us kneel at the cross, where Jesus has died … so that we might live.

PRAYERS

God of the crucified Jesus, we pray, in deep gratitude –

For each other … each of us here: that we may be lifted above anxieties, guilt, pain or fear, and by the mercies of Jesus, who bore our sorrows and carried our shame, find peace at the foot of the cross.

For the church: that we may be courageous in carrying the cross, compassionate in forgiving others, and willing to use our resources in love … for all those for whom Jesus died.

For the suffering – all around the world: that sick, hungry or persecuted people … may know your love and receive your help … which they need physically, emotionally or spiritually – may they know there is a God who understands, and reaches out in compassion.

For our families and friends: according to their individual needs, where hopes that have been buried … these may again germinate and grow, and be ready for a resurrection.

For our nation: that Australia may be just, generous and peace-making, and broadly experience the grace that we have experienced at the foot of the cross … in the fellowship of Christ’s sufferings. Amen.

Blessed be Your Name, Jesus – friend of the needy and forsaken; blessed be Your Name. We thank You for loving us so much, that You endured the cross for our salvation. Fill us with such wonder at your suffering love, that we might long to be transformed by it. We look forward to Your resurrection. Amen.

"A Servant's Heart" (Mark 14:32-42)

“There in the garden of tears,

My heavy load he chose to bear;

His heart with sorrow was torn,

‘Yet not my will but yours’, he said.”

(Graham Kendrick)

Jesus had a heart to serve God and serve humanity.

Earlier in Mark’s Gospel (10:45) we read: “For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many”. This is both a service to God, who desires relationship with all people, and a service to us, because we need redeeming. We might imagine providing a ransom when one family member is kidnapped, but what about paying a ransom for the entirety of humankind … now that is weighty!

The context of this statement was the request of James and John, the sons of Zebedee, and key disciples, to be granted the honour of sitting at the right and left hand of Jesus in his Kingdom. This was revealed to be a completely self-centred and misplaced request. Totally opposite to this was the attitude and life-orientation of their leader – “[I] came not to be served but to serve”. And serve is what Jesus always did.

James and John had said to Jesus, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you”. Imagine saying that to Jesus! But, sometimes we might have that attitude too, and when it doesn’t work out that way, we put distance between ourselves and God like a disappointed or petulant child. James and John, at the time, were confident that they could follow Jesus into anything, but alas, we find them here, in the garden … asleep. So, why did they fall short?? What were they thinking about – themselves, or serving God and others!?

In the Gospel of Mark, we see Jesus’ first disciples in a constant struggle to learn what it means to follow Jesus. Serving God, and serving others!! It’s not about me! Even the person, who is at the centre of the universe, Jesus, says, ‘It’s not about me’ … “For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many”.

Now, Jesus never claimed that this was easy. We hear Jesus say in Matthew’s Gospel (7:14), “… the gate is narrow and the road is hard that leads to life, and there are few who find it”. James and John themselves are asked whether they can “drink the cup” that Jesus will drink (Mark 10:38) i.e. the “cup” of sacrifice. It’s not easy! And we best understand that by looking at the scene in the Garden of Gethsemane (14:32-42), and the utter emotional turmoil happening there.

Sometimes I think we underestimate the personal turmoil and agony that the cross was for Jesus. Maybe not in our words, but in a sort of easy attitude to it – as if this was just a powerful invincible God, with very thick skin, up there on the cross; with grace coming pretty easily. Mel Gibson thought that we took the cross too casually, and brought out a film to confront us with the truth.

Jesus was just as human as we are.

Imagine ourselves under that treatment! This is why the book of Hebrews can tell us … that there is no suffering that Jesus hasn’t experienced before us. Now that’s the sort of God I’m interested in! And for many, more so than the all-powerful God of miracles … the ‘Suffering Servant’ is the God they need to know. Of course, we know that God is One – this is the same God, but there are so many dimensions to this God that can be appreciated.

Paul, when he wrote to the Philippians, quoted what was probably an early creed or song (2:6-8), speaking of Christ Jesus, “… though he was in the form of God, [he] did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness; and being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death – even death on a cross”. We see this humility, obedience and service played out in the Garden (14:32-42) … in tears! It wasn’t as if Jesus didn’t know what crucifixion meant – every person living under Roman rule knew about crucifixion – one of the cruellest methods of capital-punishment ever invented.

Any human would want to avoid that. That this pressing threat was taking a tremendous toll on Jesus, is seen as we read what he was feeling as he came to pray at Gethsemane: distress, agitation and deep grief (v 33-4), leading to a real desire that he might be spared the pain and torture ahead. Jesus, understandably, don’t you think, prayed that if it was at all possible, this eventuality might pass by him (v 35). Jesus had thrown himself to the ground, and now appealed to his “Abba Father” (v 36a), as a little child might intimately appeal to the ‘Daddy’ that they trust completely. [Yet, it is this same level of trust, that allows for the remarkable statement that follows (v 36b)!]

Temptation.

It seems that Jesus, as a human being, was given full capacity, as we are, to make his own decisions. Like us, though sinless, he needed to be baptised and be filled with the Holy Spirit. Like us, he was subject to a wilderness experience and confronted with temptations (to be self-focussed and go his own way). The devil was lurking around him. Jesus clearly had the choice to just fit in with the strict boundaries of the religious establishment. Through their lack of understanding, Jesus’ disciples sometimes sought to divert him toward easier paths. Jesus also had the choice to fulfil the expectations of sections of the crowd and become a political style ‘messiah’ – this surely must have been sorely tempting. Or … Jesus could fulfil God’s expectations … being a servant aligned with God’s will and purposes.

A willing servant.

A willing servant will put to one side their own desires, agendas and goals … for a greater good … even when factoring in the, sometimes significant, cost. And the greater good here? In the case of Jesus? What was that??

How else will people experience freedom from the destructive power of sin! How else will they move past the guilt and sometimes shame that is attached to sin! How else will they be able to move into the full potential of life originally intended for them! Someone needed to pick up all this burden and deal with it completely.

What an incredible act of glorious grace … that God decided to take this on. But at the same time, this was a willing act by someone who would feel all the pain and misery of a Roman cross … to achieve the desired end – Jesus – the ‘Suffering Servant’ … that had been long spoken about through the prophet Isaiah.

And so we hear those glorious words, “Not what I want, but what you want” – “Not what I will, but what you will” (NIV). This was actually the confirmation of how Jesus had lived ever since his ministry and mission had begun three years earlier. [In fact when he was twelve years old, according to Luke (2:41-52), he had informed his parents that he needed to be (serving) in his “Father’s house]. But this, here in the Garden, under all the pressure of knowing what lay before him, was the most severe test of his obedience and servanthood! And we hear the golden words, “Not what I want, but what God wants”.

Opposite attitude.

At the same time we are reminded of the opposite attitude. Peter, James and John were unable, or worse, unwilling, to stay awake with Jesus while he wrestled with his fate. They could NOT have been unknowing of his dilemma, as they had been given a ‘heads up’ often enough. Also Jesus had only moved slightly away from them there in the garden; and as was the custom, he would likely have been praying out aloud. Here they were, at the time of their friend’s greatest need, falling asleep.

Fancy falling asleep through this … when these words were being spoken! And even when they were specially requested (at least three times) to stay awake in human solidarity with Jesus. Clearly these disciples did not know how to react to this turn of events, but you would have thought that they would have cared enough to stay awake (and joined Jesus as he continued to agonise in prayer). It seems that early inspiration of theirs … was regressing toward self-preservation.

The fact that Jesus was disappointed in his disciples is clear. Jesus refers to Peter as “Simon” (v 37), i.e. his old name … with the inference that Peter was no longer acting as “the Rock”. Jesus was rightly concerned for these disciples, as their lack of obedience and common sense, together with their human weakness (v 38), would put them at great risk in the days ahead.

Yet, Jesus was still NOT deterred nor diverted by this disappointment; perhaps Jesus became even more understanding of the necessity of going forward (experiencing first hand this level of weakness and need in humanity).

And, Jesus did not judge these disciples too harshly; for in another act of servanthood, Jesus seeks to re-gather these disciples, with the words, “Get up, let us be going” (v 42) … “us” – as a collective unit. The hope that Jesus invested in these followers was not going to be easily diminished! Jesus would still commission these disciples to change the world; and in that, through the Holy Spirit, they were hugely successful.

Conclusion.

It was a servant’s heart that took the road of sacrifice, because this was the only road forward for humanity. This was the only way God could redeem his beloved humanity, and Jesus knew it. In unity with God, and in solidarity with each one of us, Jesus became the ‘Suffering Servant’ that went to the cross.

At the same time, it was a servant’s heart, like Jesus had, that could cope with misunderstanding, denial, and betrayal, and friends falling asleep all around him … but still invest in them and keep trusting them; and ultimately call them to represent him in the future. A servant gives his heart knowing that there will be hearts returning to him.

It is a servant’s heart that gets results … in reconciling people towards God. Not big words, not complex strategies … but a servant’s heart!