“Jesus went forth with His disciples over the brook Kedron, where there was a garden, into which He entered with His disciples… for Jesus often resorted there with His disciples” (John 18:1,2).
Jesus went to the garden, to “often resort” and pray, because He carried a burden that you and I will never know - all the sins of the world – past, present, future. The wars, idolatries, murders, sexual immoralities, lies, thefts, greed, pride, the horrors of the cruelties committed “in the dark places of the earth,” – He carried it all to the Cross.
Think of His power to carry such a load of sin. It staggers the mind. We can’t even carry the news and corruptions of our own towns and countries, let alone the horrors of the world. Think of His love to redeem sinners. There is no love like this found in humanity. Think of His patience to wait for people of every country in the world to hear His offer of forgiveness, cleansing, new life, and safety from the wrath to come. Who can fathom it all?
But it’s important to consider that if His power, love, patience, and grace is far beyond human comprehension, what will His day of wrath be like? The Lord says, “Behold, the Day of the Lord comes, terrifying, both with wrath and fierce anger… I will punish the world for their evil, and the wicked for their lawlessness… I will shake the heavens, and the earth shall remove out of her place” (Isaiah 13:9,11,13).
So while we await His return, when your heart feels heavy, find a quiet place to resort and pray. The One who holds All-power will meet you there, renew your strength, and help you carry your burdens until the Trumpet sounds.
(Devotional by Lisa Cataford)
Comments