Political position? The ability to influence or impress others with what we have or who we know? We even hear of “power in numbers.” No matter which comes to mind, do you believe that only those in power can make a difference?
Two thousand years ago, an innocent man who committed no crime, was arrested, tried and sentenced to death. There were many people around Him who could have used their power to stand up for his innocence. Instead, Jesus faced His accusers alone. The night before His crucifixion, Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane to be spared the painful death awaiting Him. And even though He had the power to walk away, He was willing to put self-interest aside and surrender His will to His Father God in heaven.
At Jesus’ mockery of a trial, Pilate, the Roman Governor, had the power to free Jesus. He even believed Jesus was innocent—yet, in order to protect his treasured political position, he caved into the crowd (Mark 15:6-15). Even Peter, who only hours earlier vowed to Jesus that he’d never leave Him, became exasperated by those bombarding him with questions and finally exclaims, “I’ve never even met the man!” …And so Jesus went to the cross alone.
After Jesus was crucified, had died, and the Sabbath had ended, three women (Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of Jesus and Salome) rose up very early and went to the tomb to bring the traditional burial spices to anoint Jesus’ body. These women had no large following, political position or powerful influence. Rather, it was their simple love and devotion that compelled them to action. As a result, they were the first people on earth to be used by God to spread the Good News.
What about you? Do you want to be used by God? Do you believe you need the power of position, or influence or wealth to make a difference? That’s not what Jesus is looking for. Humility, commitment and self-sacrifice speak volumes to a world convinced the weak have nothing to offer. The women in Jesus’ day were powerless by the world’s standards. They had few rights, were rarely educated and had little authority. Yet, out of one small act of devotion—Jesus blessed three solitary women with a ministry they couldn’t ever have hoped for or imagined.
This may surprise you but Jesus does not want our money, influence, doctorate degrees or mega-ministries: he wants us. When we come to Him, wholly offering up ourselves, that is when He will eagerly apply the gifts, talents and influence He’s given us in order to advance His Kingdom—with Power.
“The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7b (NLT)
Shadia Hrichi
If you enjoyed this week’s “Moments with God,” please leave a comment. I’d love to hear your thoughts.
