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Mark 15:27 NLT

'Two revolutionaries were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left.'

The context of Jesus’ death reinforces the substance of his message. In death he is flanked by two common criminals, each responsible for their own fate. Jesus, meanwhile, was an innocent victim. Yet, he had come in search of the fallen and lost, and the two thieves either side of him are testimony to a successful search. Those whom society condemns, God embraces. Here one thief seizes his opportunity and secures the privilege of joining Jesus in paradise.

As I wrestled with the behind-the-doors reality of managing a wasting disease as I cared for Katey, I was reduced to my worst. I had nothing to bring to Jesus’ feet save my broken and disordered self. I had crossed so many lines in my anger and resentment that it came as something of a shock when all God wanted from me was a heartfelt appeal for help. Help was not the physical healing I’d assumed it would be. Had this been the case, it could only reduce God to no more than a negotiator. It was the recognition that I could do absolutely nothing for myself and, however undeserving, God chose and accepted my surrender.

Once arrested, Jesus lost all human control over his future. My fear of losing control over my future, more than my present, often bothers me. Yet, as Jesus later explained to Peter, there comes a time when someone else will exercise power over me. Independence will be lost. It is good for me to ponder these words as one who enjoys self-determination. I learned early how I prized autonomy, absenting myself from upper school frequently. Now I must prepare my heart for the day I need to accept the authority of another due to my age or ill health.

QUESTION: What evidence is there in your life that God is anything more than a good moral teacher?

PRAYER: Jesus, may you grant that others would see in me that you are not only my saviour but also my Lord.