An informed sacrifice

Mark 14:61 finds Jesus before the high priests. It’s already been a long day for Jesus. He’s been anointed with oil in Bethany, sat down for the last supper with his disciples, prayed a desperate prayer in Gethsemane, and experienced betrayal by a ministry partner from his inner circle. He may be feeling that dragging feeling in the tips of his toes. He needs some sleep. He's probably given a thought or two to his bed at home, despite the electric atmosphere surging around him. The Sanhedrin swirling around him like furious cloud of bees, all red faces and spit and accusation.

Jesus, who existed before the world, who saw its first sunrise, sits quietly as they accuse him, the Creator of all existence, of blasphemy. "Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” “I am,” said Jesus.

We know it isn’t anger that prompts his response at this point, because God’s anger is a consuming fire. Jesus speaks the phrase “I am” the name of God, which is his own name, out of love for his children. Even in the midst of what could otherwise be a comical case of missing of the point, our Creator King is patient, offering a relentless witness, and an unyielding invitation to his loved ones.

Despite the insult, despite the cost, despite our inability to see Him clearly, Jesus invites us then, today, and everyday into right relationship with the savior King who is the great “I am.” Know today that God is patiently pursuing you, regardless whether you’ve gotten right in the past, regardless of anger, apathy, or pride.

Where is has God been patiently pursuing you?


Mark 14:36