Was Jesus in Control?

A superficial reading of the events from the Triumphal Entry to Easter Sunday could give you this impression: It is the story of a popular godly country prophet – miracle worker who is put to death by the dastardly, scheming Pharisees and Sadducees, aided by a spineless Roman named Pilate. All in all it is a sad depressing tale reflected in the life of the two men trying to comfort each other that dreary Sunday morning on their walk to Emmaus...

Fortunately for us if you look at the record carefully you find a tale very different from that depressing one. It shows Jesus Christ as being fully in control, deeply concerned about the people around him, and intent on completing God the Father’s agenda in the proper way!You see Jesus not only in control of himself but of the events of this week. He chose the particular donkey colt for the triumphal entry. He cleansed the Temple and no one chased him off. He selected the place for the last Supper. He told Judas when to leave. At the arrest he directed the flow of events; the arresting force even fell back at the sound of his voice! Through the trials he is the only one who is composed. At the crucifixion, he refused the drugged wine, settled affairs, and died when it was time. After the Resurrection, he comes and goes as he wills, even through locked doors. Even this short list demonstrates that he is the sovereign Lord.

Jesus’ deep love and concern for people is also evident. He shed tears over Jerusalem because he knew what their rejection of him would mean. He was concerned for Peter, he prayed for him, warned him, and forgave him. He was concerned about his mother’s welfare and took care of that from the cross. Ultimately it was all out of love, as Jesus told Nicodemus: “For God so loved the world ….”

Jesus was also intent living the week out correctly. We see this most clearly in the Garden when he prays to God the Father: “not as I will, but as you will”. He literally does God’s will God’s way and so is the sinless Savior we need.

Through all of this Jesus Christ is revealed to be the sovereign, triumphant, King of kings, God the Son, and our Savior.

So when things happen, when life appears to be out of control, whether it is news from the war in Iraq, finances, things at work, or just everything in general; remember to look beyond the surface. Then like the two men sitting down to eat in Emmaus you will realize that God is in control, he does love you, and your despondency will turn into joy!

As you live out your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, may his loving sovereignty uphold, protect, and bless you.

Written by Rev. Daniel Baker April 2003



Articles by Rev. Daniel B. Baker :: Webmaster: Joseph I. Baker