The Foundation of our Faith Part 2
Last month we looked at the demonstration of God’s compassion on people while Jesus hung on the cross. We continue our discussion from the foot of the cross where a group of women kept close watch. Matthew identifies two of them as Mary Magdalene and Mary, the mother of Jesus who stood near the foot of the cross.
These women along with others followed Jesus from Galilee to care for His needs. Even when events spun horribly out of control, they stayed with Jesus to the bitter end. They and many others had witnessed Jesus’ teaching with undeniable authority, healing the sick and even raising the dead. They had devoted themselves to serving Him wholeheartedly. Now the terrible turn of events left them frightened and stunned. It seemed that their hopes and dreams were dying along with their beloved Master as He gasped for breath.
What made them stick with Jesus till the bitter end, even when others fled in fear? These women and so many others that day faced a dilemma in their faith. The one who was promised to be their saviour and king, to restore to them the promised life of victory and freedom was about to die along with all the promises and hope their faith depended on. They were overwhelmed with grief, confusion and fear, yet something about this man caused them to cling to Him in the face of all accusations and threats.
I believe they stayed because of their love for Him. This love was one built on the foundation of the unconditional love and acceptance of a tender hearted and compassionate saviour. Not long after His death and resurrection, even those who fled in fear at the cross dedicated their lives to tell the world about this loving saviour. Many of them willingly gave up their lives for this cause. They too were rooted in a deep devotion for a loving, caring God. Sooner or later, each of us will face a moment when it seems that our hopes and dreams are dying. We may have crippling health problems; broken relationships, the loss of a loved one, or a child who chooses the wrong path. How will we react when despite our prayers and good works, there is no visible sign of God’s working hand in our lives?
Will we give in to our doubts and fears, letting go of our hope and faith, wondering if our God has deserted us? Will we walk away from our faith in despair, or will we stay, regardless of what seems to be a hopeless situation? Will we remain faithful to Him, out of a deep seated love for our Saviour, Who we know in our heart of hearts will stay true to His word where we are concerned?
