Betty Whitaker Jackson

Jesus told his disciples the parable of the sheep and goats, then, chapter 26 of Matthew says: “When Jesus had finished saying all these things, He said to his disciples, “As you know, the Passover is two days away–and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified.'” There were already plots and plans against Jesus, notably by Caiaphas and the chief priests, but they were postponing arresting Jesus until after the feast. They feared an uprising by the people. Jesus went to Bethany where a woman anointed Him with expensive  perfume, to the dismay of the disciples who thought it extravagant. They asked, of all things, “Why this waste?”

Jesus, always the teacher, tells them she has done a beautiful thing, preparing Him for burial. Jesus reveres her and says she will always be remembered, wherever the gospel is told. Jesus knew of Judas’s plot to turn Him over to the authorities. The group of twelve observed their Last Supper together, but this meal was raised to new significance. Many churches this day will observe Maundy Thursday in memory of this occasion.

I ask, what if the world never knew this Jesus? What if this little band of disciples, whom Jesus loved, had not told His story? Why if the prophets had not been faithful to God’s leading. What if the cloud of witnesses generations ago and now had not told me about Jesus and God’s plans for Him so that I could believe and have the gift of salvation?

Jesus came as a direct gift from our Heavenly Father, Who loved the world so much that He sent His Son, this Jesus, so that we could have everlasting life. I pray those who read this will accept this truth, join with me in acknowledging that Jesus is the answer to the world’s need, and that this indeed will be a special Easter for all.

MY PSALM 344   REFLECTION

Almighty Father, Everlasting God, Creator and Sustainer,

This day I come in humble thanksgiving

For Your gift of Jesus to the world.

Where would we be without His Presence

To admonish, to guide, to cleanse, to promise?

 

Lord Jesus, I bow to You this day

Remembering Your pure life lived for Your Father,

Transforming life on earth as we know it

By Your Presence and Your example.

You taught us to love;

We do it so imperfectly.

You gave us perspective

So we can know the Father,

In all His patience, love, mercy, forgiveness

And power to save.

You suffered deprivation, scorn, betrayal

And cruel death

So we can know life in abundance and fulness

Under the Father’s care.

 

I thank You that I live on this side of the cross.

I thank You that You now dwell

With Your Father In heaven

So that the Holy Spirit can continue Your work

In our hearts, minds, and souls,

Bringing us peace that passes all understanding.

 

Thank You, Father, Son and Holy Spirit

For purchasing my salvation

And guiding my life through days of trouble

And nights of unrest.

 

Thank You for Your provision, Your direction,

Your covenant promise

And the gift of life everlasting

In Your Eternal Presence. Amen.