When We Don't Understand

 

      The disciples of Jesus were Jewish men awaiting their Messiah. Their expectations for Jesus were for Him to rule and reign on earth. Jesus told them on more than one occasion what was to come. Here is one example. This conversation takes place as Jesus and His followers are journeying to Jerusalem for Passover, shortly before His crucifixion. The disciples had been with Him for nearly three years.

Jesus took the Twelve aside and told them, “We are going to Jerusalem and everything that is written by the prophets about the Son of Man will be fulfilled. He will be delivered over to the Gentiles. They will mock Him, insult Him and spit on Him. They will flog Him and kill Him. On the third day He will rise again.”  Luke 31-33

     From this side of the cross it all makes sense. Did they listen and ask what it all meant? Here is their response.

The disciples did not understand any of this. Its meaning was hidden from them and they did not know what He was talking about.  Luke 18:45

     Not only were they confused. Did you catch it? The meaning was hidden from them. Even the disciples would not understand God’s plan until after the resurrection. In fact, all of the disciples scattered as Jesus was brought to the cross. All but one. John.

     I’ve had the urge to run away from God now and again. It’s easy to turn away when we don’t understand. We tune out. We try to escape from what is before us. We long to control the situation and deny the reality. God seems so far away. Has He deserted us? We thought He was the One. Isn’t He the One to watch over us and take care of us?

     God has always and will continue to watch over us. He understands and He offers hope. Can we listen and trust when we don’t understand? Will we run from His presence rather than wait patiently under His protective wings?

     Let’s bring it all to the foot of the cross where He took on all of what we are facing, right this minute. He rose again. And so will you.

Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God. Believe also in Me. John 14:1

Dear Jesus,

The stories in Your Word give us hope. Even those You were closest to on the earth ran from You. Don’t let us go when things get tough and we don’t have all of the answers. You do, and we trust You.

Amen