Amid the joy of Easter, sometimes I forget…
I forget how much it cost Jesus to say yes to the cross. I underestimate the struggle He went through to willingly drink the bitter cup of my sins and yours.
I had the privilege of discussing Jesus’ last few days on earth with Israel expert, Amy Turnage.
Amy is one of the directors of the Center for Holy Lands Studies, and is featured in the bonus material we filmed for the Lazarus Awakening DVD Study.
I know you’ll love her insights as we trace the crucial steps Jesus took on “The Road to Easter.” Here’s the first video…
Surrendering to God’s Will
[Learn more about the Lazarus Awakening DVD Study and view other Israel Moments videos at my new book site: www.LazarusAwakening.com]
Overview of the Interview
For those of you who prefer reading over watching, here’s a summary of the interview taken from the Lazarus Awakening Study Guide [see sample]…
The night Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane was a crucible night in the life of our Savior (Matthew 26:36–56). A night—and a decision—that would change the world. Amy Turnage and I discuss this dark moment:
What do you think Gethsemane was like for Jesus?
We need to remember that Jesus was fully human and fully God. He had to experience the same things we experience—the feelings and the fear of what was about to happen. Jesus made a costly choice that night. And in His example, we learn how to respond when faced with our own “Gethsemane.”
Did Jesus have other options?
Yes, He did. Jesus didn’t have to surrender when the soldiers came to arrest Him (John 18:4–6). He could have escaped over the Mount of Olives and been lost in the desert in a matter of an hour. Staying wasn’t an easy decision (Matthew 26:39). But instead of choosing to run, Jesus chose to be obedient to His Father.
What does Gethsemane mean to you?
Gethsemane means that when things are difficult, when there are hard choices to make, I need to give that part of my life to God. I need to be willing to do the hard thing, even when it’s painful and involves suffering. When we are obedient, there is a peace and a strength that helps us do God’s will. When we refuse, there is turmoil.
The name Gethsemane means “oil press”; do you think that’s significant?
The work of an oil press was important for Jewish life and worship. Olives would be pressed in it to provide oil for three uses:
~ First pressing for the Temple
~ Second pressing for cosmetics and food
~ Third pressing for lamp oil
God wants to use the “Gethsemane” pressing times in our lives as well. For His glory and for our transformation—so that we can become a light to the world.
“Abba, Father,” he said, “everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.”
Mark 14:36
Coming Friday & Sunday
Join us this Good Friday for an in depth look at the crucifixion. It was a terrible day made beautiful. A bad Friday made good all because of our Savior embraced the cross.
Then on Sunday, get ready for a glorious Resurrection Day as Amy and I discuss the deep importance of Easter to our faith.
Can’t wait to have you join us. Share the image below and invite your friends!
I’d love to hear from you….What part of the Easter story means the most to you, and why?