Given the high state of Jesus‘ consciousness, I do not think the horrific events of his last week on earth caught him by surprise. I think he saw what was coming, yet he consciously embraced the suffering that was to visit him. This is the point: when we consciously embrace the unavoidable suffering of life, we cease to be victims. Such a choice dignifies, ennobles, and elevates us. Still deeper, Jesus was able to operate with such courage because he had absolute faith in God’s providential goodness. He intuitively knew that heaven’s light shines brightest in our darkest moments if we keep our hearts centered in God. Shakespeare said that a coward dies a thousand deaths, but a brave person dies only once. Jesus showed us how to maintain faith in God and in the future. We would be wise to do the same!
Beloved Jesus,
With your grace
And your example,
I can practice
Embracing my suffering.
