On the Way to the Cross

As I talk to or e-mail many of the new, first time missionaries who have been appointed to serve in Singapore where we will be, I often hear them say that they are excited, but also very overwhelmed. The excitement and adventure of being in a new place and yet the reality of it all comes crashing in when they think of being on the other side of the world, away from family and friends, not knowing where they will live, working with students from 20 plus different countries, and many other unknowns.

Since serving overseas in two different locations, I can understand some of what they are going through--what I'm sure I will go through again--which I call “my Gethsemane.” Henry Blackaby called it your “Crisis of Belief.” It is where you know that you are doing what God has called you to do, but the doubt and unbelief sets in so hard and so strong, you almost lose your focus. I can’t even imagine what Jesus experienced while He was in the Garden of Gethsemane. Mattthew 26:38 says, "Jesus said to them, 'My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.'” Oh, Jesus knew that the cross was the Father’s will, but yet, He even He struggled with the will and plan of God. He wasn’t sure if He was ready or able to pay the price that had to be paid. No doubt, we can’t compare the insignificant sacrifices we make here on earth to what Jesus did for us, but yet, we do know that we all must come to the place in our hearts and minds where we say as Jesus said, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.”

As we approach the wonderful Easter Celebration in just a few short days from now, may we never forget the price that was paid for the victory and freedom of sin that we have because of what Jesus went through on the cross for you and for me. “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2