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During my last teaching stint, the school was raising money for new playground equipment. The principal asked if any of the teachers were interested in joining one of the parents who had volunteered to be sponsored for a Polar Dip into the local lake. The principal was shocked when, as the oldest teacher there, I agreed to do it!
Winters are cold in Alberta, Canada. I would have to jump into freezing cold water via a large square hole cut into the thick ice of the lake. A few people thought I was crazy, including Terry, my husband. My doctor checked me out, and gave me the go-ahead.
During the month preceding the event I wondered, “What have I gotten myself into?” It seemed more scary every time I thought about it. I was determined to go through with my commitment, however. Finally, by the grace of God, I was at peace with the idea.
The actual dip was not as frightening as I had imagined, although it was -16 degrees C (3 degrees F) that February day. Before I knew it, the two firemen on standby were helping me clamber out of the water. I did not have time to feel the cold, and was satisfied that I had done my small part in contributing to the school's goal of playground equipment.
Jesus had one major goal in life, and gradually began to prepare his followers. “From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead.” (Matthew 16:21 NLT)
“As the time drew near for him to ascend to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.” (Luke 9:51 NLT)
In Jerusalem, Jesus shared the Passover meal with His disciples.
“Then, accompanied by the disciples, Jesus left the upstairs room and went as usual to the Mount of Olives... He walked away, about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, 'Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.'" (Luke 22: 39, 41,42 NLT)
Feeling anguished, Jesus told His disciples, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death.” (Matthew 16:36a NLT) Despite His distress, Jesus went ahead with God's plan. He was resolute, unwavering in His commitment to do the will of the Father. Because of Jesus' obedience, we who waver in so many things can have a new quality of life now, and life that will continue into all eternity.
Let us thank the Lord for being resolute on our behalf!
Thank You, Jesus, that You went ahead with God's plan for humankind. May we be ever grateful, and remain committed to You. In Your name we pray. Amen.
Alice Burnett
Red Deer, Alberta Canada
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