We Can't Shoot Them

In the first part of Luke Chapter 23 is the recap of Pilate sentencing Jesus to death even though he doesn't think He deserves to die. What is still remarkable to me is that Jesus didn't defend Himself. He could easily have talked his way out, escaped, fought, called for back up...any number of ways He could have escaped. Instead He stood quietly without defending Himself.

Reading this reminded me of a scene in End of the Spear. If you've seen the movie you know the scene from the title of this post. Nate Saint is preparing to make contact with the Waodani when his young son Steve asks him a very direct question. He asks, "if they attack, will you defend yourself?" His answer, "We can't shoot the Waodani, they're not ready for Heaven, we are." Where did he get that kind of courage and clarity of purpose? It's just not normal.

After reading this passage of scripture I see where it came from. To be committed to the purpose for which you were created even in the face of death requires a unique clarity of purpose and belief that you are in the center of God's will. Chris Wall, in a post on his blog, contemplated whether God would put you in danger. I believe he concluded that the center of God's will wasn't necessarily the safest place to be, but it was the best place to be. Maybe it's the only place to be.

Lord I pray for clarity of purpose and for the courage to follow you...wherever you lead.