Have you ever noticed how composed Jesus was leading up to his crucifixion? He said a brief prayer for himself. He said a much longer prayer for his disciples and for “all those who will believe in me through their message”. (John 16:20) And, most significantly, he went willingly. “Shall I not drink the cup my Father has given me?” (John 18:11)
The father has given me much less meaningful cups and I didn’t respond with half the decorum or maturity. Nothing I’ve been asked to do has ever come close to bodily harm or even the slight risk of death.
Although, I did go parasailing with my family. I honestly did believe I could die. I thought I would love it, but I actually nearly had a panic attack 400 feet. Here’s what kept me distracted. I was wearing running shorts. And you sit in the harness kinda like it’s a bottomless chair. So, I was equal parts scared slap to death and mortified that my painfully white flabby flapping thighs were being watched from below. I will never EVER go parasailing again. Too much indignity.
Sometimes when the father hands me a cup, I don’t recognize it. I see an inconvenience or a disappointment. I’m usually a little slow to notice that it’s actually a beautiful experience filled with exactly the lessons I need.
Maybe you’re holding a cup right now. Pray that you will respond as Jesus did. Do NOT pray for the opportunity to go parasailing.
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