They were terrified
January 23, 2009
Part of my daily rhythm, in an effort to live more and more in the way of Jesus, is to start my day by slowly prayerfully reading the Scriptures. For several years now I have been following the daily readings as outlined in the Book of Common Prayer. Today I was struck by a simple phrase from the Gospel reading. My phrase for the day is “They were terrified.”
I got to wondering, when was the last time I was terrified because of an encounter with Jesus? The disciples hearts were filled with fear. All they could manage to utter was a simple question born out of a heart of bewilderment, “Who is this?” I get the feeling that those closest to Jesus, didn’t know what to do with Jesus. After figuring out they could not control, use or manipulate him, they were left to simply follow him. They certainly did not have him figured out. He transcended their mental categories and often left them feeling afraid or doubtful. Sadly, this is often not the case in my life. Too often I find myself talking about or explaining Jesus as if I have him figured out. Instead of drawing back in fear, I put him in a cage. I’m afraid my teaching’s and explanations of Jesus are leaving people bored rather than terrified. Therefore, I guess I shouldn’t be surprised that these people will show up to a church gathering or function out of duty, but if they really want to have some excitement or feel alive, they look to other things. The Inauguration, the Super Bowl or the season premier of Lost all seem to carry more excitement and life than my portrayal of my “tamed” Jesus.
My heart longs for the terror felt by the disciples. May God help me return to the Scriptures and discover there a Jesus who truly inspires, terrifies and brings life. May Jesus be uncaged in my life today and may God grant me the grace to live in that terror without trying to put Jesus back into the cage.
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Jamie, great reflections! I especially like your closings thoughts/words:
“I guess I shouldn’t be surprised that these people will show up to a church gathering or function out of duty, but if they really want to have some excitement or feel alive, they look to other things. The Inauguration, the Super Bowl or the season premier of Lost all seem to carry more excitement and life than my portrayal of my “tamed” Jesus.
My heart longs for the terror felt by the disciples. May God help me return to the Scriptures and discover there a Jesus who truly inspires, terrifies and brings life. May Jesus be uncaged in my life today and may God grant me the grace to live in that terror without trying to put Jesus back into the cage.”
May God me as well! Thanks brother
Great stuff Jamie. I really appreciate your emphasis on the “tamed” Jesus. We must let him run wild.