August 3 Strength Together

Luke 22:14-16 When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table. 15 And he said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer.16 For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God.”
 
WHEN you eagerly desire something, you truly want it to happen don’t you? You eagerly desire to enjoy Christmas with your family. You eagerly desire a fun, memorable vacation. On the day I write this, we have friends who eagerly desire their daughter’s marriage will be perfect, beautiful and joyful. Did you notice this “eager list” is about gathering with family and friends.? Yes, there are times we like to be alone, but families are made in God’s image to be in loving relationships with each other. In our soul, we eagerly desire to find support, love and strength in family, often affirmed when we gather. This is one reason a family meal each day is so important. Such regular constructive family time strengthens us as we know someone supports and loves us.
    In a like manner, Jesus eagerly desired to eat the Passover with his “family” – his closest disciples before he suffered. We might think this strange, though. This meal would confirm to Jesus he was closer to his suffering. Who wants to be reminded of the hard things – especially death – that is so close?
    Jesus, though, fully knew his ministry and his mission. Humbly, he had submitted to the Father’s will. There was no way to avoid the God’s declared will. Prepared for the cross, he was eager once more to experience once more the close family support.
    These loving relationships strengthened Jesus. He could move forward into his suffering as he kept his mind on those he was saving. He’s the soldier having one more meal with his family before leaving for the unavoidable war. The soldier can go even eagerly into battle because he knows whom he protects. His purpose is sure to keep his loved ones secure.
    This is Jesus’ eager delight on that Passover night. He could face the suffering because he was about to destroy death. He was eager to win the battle and claim the sure victory for his own. Eagerly, he desired that you would be secure in the family of God forever.
 
Prayer: Lord God, grant to me an eager delight to minister your love, mercy and joy. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.