[This is one in a series of devotional reflections prepared for Horley Baptist Church during April 2024]
When we look back at the events of Easter we can picture the central characters of the story: Pilate, Herod, the chief priests, the indifferent soldiers, the frightened disciples, the manipulated mob and, of course, Jesus himself. However, as Dazz reminded us,[1] there are many characters whose role seems secondary but yet without whom the story would be incomplete.
In John’s gospel account we see mention of a servant-girl who was the gate-keeper in the house of the chief priest. She identified Peter as being one of the disciples but he denied it. Without her accusations Peter might not have been challenged and we would have not had the record of denial, forgiveness and reinstatement that has been a blessing to so many people.
There are times when it seems expedient to play down our commitment to Jesus. How do you react in those situations?
If we endure, we will also reign with him. If we disown him, he will also disown us
2 Timothy 2 v12 [NIVUK]
Luke tells us about Simon of Cyrene who was chosen at random and compelled to carry the cross for Jesus. Simon no doubt felt that he was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Some traditions suggest that he carried the lighter lower end whilst Jesus carried the heavy end. Be that as it may, his actions have earned him an honourable mention in the Easter account.
Have you ever felt that you were in the wrong place at the wrong time? Simon’s story is an encouragement to those of us who feel that way too.
Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?
Esther 4 v14 [NKJV]
In Mark’s version we see an additional detail about Simon; it would have been normal to identify Simon by his father’s name but here we given the names of his two sons, Alexander and Rufus. Why? Some have speculated that these two men were known to the original readers of Mark’s account and that Simon’s family became believers following his encounter with the cross.
Has your encounter with the cross had an impact on those around you?
For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
1 Corinthians 1:18 [NIVUK]
In our secular society and in our church communities there are people whose role seems secondary but yet without them much of what we take for granted would not happen. Do we appreciate what they do?
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness.
Psalm 84 v10 [ESVUK]
The gate-keeper and the cross-bearer have a lasting legacy – how will you be remembered?
Resources:
[1] Easter morning service, 31/Mar/2024.
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Last week’s reflection: God Made Time
Contributed by Steve Humphreys; © the Author
Thank you again Steve for an interesting and thought provoking reflection. Have you given some serious thought to having a selection of them published? I really think you should!