Jesus I.D.
Something happened in Jesus’ soul at Gethsemane, something he wants us to experience as his followers. At Gethsemane he modeled for us what he wants us to learn to do, and do regularly—“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).
The point of the writers of the Gethsemane story is clear: If Jesus can bring his anguish, his stress, and his questions to the Father, then you can do the same. If following God’s will involved struggle for Jesus, then you will struggle also at times. But you must remember to struggle toward God and not away from him.
If you are in a personal Gethsemane, be encouraged. Just as it had a beginning, it too will have an end. And that timetable will depend upon you and your acceptance of the will of God. Remember, every Gethsemane leads to a resurrection, but not before it leads to a cross.
When you find your Easter I.D., you will know that in your struggle you are never alone. You’ll see your life in the bright light of Christ’s. For your Savior, Jesus, not only knows how to struggle for you, but he also struggles with you. The same Jesus who reigns, heals and saves also wept. Take comfort. He is right by your side in each of life’s struggles, pointing toward a coming resurrection.
