Daily Devotional: Tuesday, September 24 – On His Back

“Going a little bit farther, he fell along with his face to the bottom and prayed, ‘My Father, whether it is potential, might this cup be taken from me. But not as I’ll, however as you’ll.’” — Matthew 26:39

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In sports activities, there are uncommon moments when an athlete carries a group on their again (figuratively). Throughout these spectacular cases, you witness the athlete carrying the group ahead regardless of the group’s collective failings as much as that time. Such a efficiency provides a glimpse into a bigger narrative.

The primary people started in a backyard with a take a look at of loyalty and belief within the God whose picture they mirrored. That take a look at was tainted by the deception of a rebellious enemy, main the primary people to fall right into a lure. But, amidst that rebel, God promised that sooner or later He would deliver judgment upon His enemy and move the take a look at on behalf of humanity (Genesis 3).

Jesus, the God who saves, got here as an unusual baby and grew up in obscurity for 30 years. When the time got here for His rescuing work to start, it was inaugurated by a baptism of the Father’s love and a 40-day wilderness journey, throughout which Jesus was examined by the adversary himself. The place people failed, Jesus handed that take a look at. Nevertheless, the hour arrived for the ultimate take a look at. Jesus discovered Himself in a garden — paying homage to the backyard the place Adam as soon as stood — and yearned for one more approach to fulfill the Father’s will.

But, within the midst of the wrestle, Jesus surrendered in belief to the Father’s will. In doing so, He carried humanity “on His again,” conquered death, and rose because the Author and Perfecter of our faith.

— Tyler Keele, Tennessee Smokies chaplain

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