Surprised by Jesus
The Rt Rev Dr Martin Fair offers a special reflection for Easter.
Photo: iStock
THERE is so much of the Easter narrative that quickens my spirit – or leaves me heavy hearted.
I shrivel with shame to think of how I’ve denied my Lord and shrink at the thought of Him looking straight at me; ‘The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: "Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly.’
Deep down, I fear that I might have fled with the other disciples when they came to arrest Him; ‘Then all his disciples deserted him and ran away.’ And I’m not at all confident that I wouldn’t have joined the mob; ‘But they kept shouting, “Crucify him! Crucify him!”
And I don’t suppose there’s much chance that I’d have lingered at the cross in those final moments; ‘Standing near the cross were Jesus’ mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary (the wife of Clopas), and Mary Magdalene.’
But imagine having been with Him on THAT day as the crowds welcomed Him and spread their cloaks and branches before Him?