Luke 22:42 – “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”

Few statements in Scripture are more selfless. Jesus, facing the cross, a death of great shame, distress and agony, was staring down a moment where He would become sin (2 Corinthians 5:21) and take sin’s full penalty and the Father’s divine wrath upon himself. The mental strain of carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders got to him as he wrestled with God through prayer. Yet, he did not back down. He did not hide. He laid down his desire, his will, his comfort to obey his Father.

That is the heart of humility. Christ is the God-Man. He is fully human, fully divine and uniquely qualified to be the atoning sacrifice for sin because he had no sin. Death was not something that he deserved. He laid down what he deserved for the will of his father and a world condemned by sin.

On account of the grace of Christ’s humility, we have the opportunity to have life through belief in him, his death and resurrection. How then should we respond?

With humility.

There are times where we have to give up things we may feel like we deserve (comfort, possessions, time) to accomplish the will of God in and through our lives. This is exemplified very clearly in presenting the Gospel. There are many reasons we can list as to why we don’t share our faith with our neighbors, family and friends, but usually at its heart is some level of pride. What will they think? What will they say? How will they respond?

Humility tells us not to worry about ourselves, but to be more concerned with others. Christ was more concerned with others when he chose to obey his father. We can demonstrate the same type of humility when we overcome our fears (by wrestling in prayer with God) and share His story with those around us.

And what great timing it is. Easter week. Sunday’s coming. What a great chance to share your faith and invite that person to church.

Be strong and courageous. Humility comes before honor.

Brian Tryhus
FBC Family Pastor