Communion #21

So much of the story of the cross engages and ministers to us. Even though the primary agenda of the cross was to make salvation available to all, Christ's response to all that took place demonstrates a deeper understanding of His love and sacrifice. 

For instance, whilst being mocked and questioned, Jesus does not answer any question that is intended to defend his case. His primary purpose is not to be relieved of this burden, but to endure even though he knows it is not the fate that He deserves. It demonstrates the security that can be obtained, that He felt no need to defend his position even for His own name-sake. Though they thought he was weak. Though they thought he was powerless. He knew he was not responsible for any judgement heaped upon Him and was not interested in how His name would be portrayed for the ages. His abandonment to the cross meant that he was not even concerned about his own credibility, nay his reputation. Love was the only thing that motivated his actions. We observe the purity of his motives. Who of us can do this? Who of us are silent in the face of accusation? From the time we are children, we are accused: “Why did you put the pencils there?” “Why did you leave this mess?” Who of us whether guilty or not, have left such questions without an answer? Who of us if we were to come off appearing weak, or were to lose our reputation, would keep our mouths shut allowing a man to think as they will? This is not just the inner strength of the man Jesus, but the inner depth of His love that when He paid the price of death on the cross, he also agreed to pay the price of humiliation.