Teresa Jacks: Easter provides grace under pressure

The contemplation of Easter often leads us to consider religious words such as hallelujah, sacrifice and risen. These are all very true and poignant words to describe the Easter event. But when I think of that week in the life of Christ, the words grace under pressure always come to my mind. Though a few of Jesus’ followers understood Him and were loyal, He was mostly heralded in by people who were either caught up in the latest and greatest thing or wanted Him to crush the Romans. He was betrayed, beaten, denied, humiliated, mocked, scorned and forsaken ... yet He was still filled with grace – grace under life-altering pressure. Jesus understood the betrayal, then forgave those who beat and humiliated Him. He prayed for the mocking and scornful. His love continued for those who denied Him. Even though He believed He was forsaken, Jesus’ eyes were still on the face of the Father. Sometimes life tempts me to scream at situations or I want to lash out at someone who has hurt me. Or perhaps I feel beaten down to the point of wanting to give up and feel that this life just is not worth all this pain. That’s when I remember Jesus and His grace under pressure.

 

Comments

[Dawn Henseler]

Thank you for the powerful words Teresa!! This is a message I need to be reminded of daily and an attitude of Christ to mature in.