Powerful words that leave a deep impression! Jesus did not have the enmity of men in mind but the will of God. He did not look at Judas, the soldiers or Pilate, but saw the hand of His Father behind them, who is above every situation and has a great plan for what is about to happen. Therefore, instead of defending Himself or fighting back, He could say in complete peace, “I was mute, I did not open My mouth, because it was You who did it” (Ps. 39:9). It is striking to see with what magnificent meekness and surrender the Son of God accepted the cup of bitterest suffering from His Father’s hand.

There is no question that the pain and suffering endured by the Son of God are unique and far beyond what we have to go through. Nevertheless, for a moment let us honestly ask ourselves with what attitude of heart and willingness we accept God’s will, when it implies that we are to go through suffering (1 Pet. 3:17). Paul writes to the Philippians that it was not only given to them to believe in Christ, but also to suffer for Him (Phil. 1:29).

In this context, the example recorded in Acts of the first Christians is also impressive. When they were threatened, they did not ask God to deliver them from persecution. Instead, they prayed that He would give them the boldness to continue to witness for the Lord faithfully (Acts 4:29). They rejoiced that they had been counted worthy to suffer shame for the name of Jesus (5:40–41). This makes it clear that they not only accepted the suffering with meekness, but also that it was even an honor for them to be allowed to suffer for Christ. We realize how challenging the issue is and how far behind we probably are in responding meekly when we experience suffering. Yet we should be assured that the Lord knows this and is patient with us!