As we bring this series of Biblical models for responding to crises to a close we explore that possibility some more. I also must confess that I could not give myself rest if we didn’t draw upon the text of the record of the colossal battle with temptation, which compelled Jesus to pray, and which intensified during His prayer.
It is one thing to experience a crisis of faith. It is quite another to be in a crisis of your will. Last week we did an “autopsy” of temptation. In the Gethsemane story, we cannot escape noticing how familiar Jesus is with temptation and how much He takes it seriously. In each of the synoptic Gospels, He is quoted as strongly encouraging His disciples to pray that they do not fall into temptation. Temptation is no figment of your imagination. I am praying for you to run well and finish well. And when you are strengthened, help a brother or sister to do the same. Amen.