Peter and John were able to get into the courtyard during Jesus’ trial that fateful Thursday night. The horror of the incredible abuse being heaped upon Jesus filled them with almost uncontrollable emotions. How could it be happening? This was their Messiah. He silenced furious storms on the sea. He put new fingers on the hands of lepers. Surely He could escape. They had on past occasions seen Him escape death. In Nazareth His relatives and neighbors tried to throw Him off a cliff. He just vanished. So why not now? They did not understand. Their feelings soared and plunged as they witnessed the incredible cruelty. With each blow they must have thought, “That’s enough. Now He will stop it.” But He didn’t He just continued to take all the vileness Satan could inspire in those sorry individuals who really had no idea with whom they were dealing.
We also have moments of not understanding the vicissitudes of life. One day all is well and we are filled with thanksgiving and the next day things are not well and we doubt if God is in control or if He really cares. If He is God why can’t He stop the pain and make things go the way we think they should go? We are just like His disciples. We do not understand the larger scenario. There are forces battling for our souls. What is intriguing is God has to play by the rules. His nature dictates fairness and love while the enemy deceives, lies, steals, causes pain, etc. It seems like it is not a level playing field; however, the really good news is God will ultimately win if we continue to trust and He will help us trust if we ask.
Written by Roger Bothwell on April 11, 2013
Spring of Life, PO Box 124, St. Helena, CA 94574
Rogerbothwell.org