A Strange Kind Of Victory

Friday, July 22, 2011

Reading: Mark 1:1-11

Reflection: As a fan of sports, I've watched all kinds of victory celebrations. Some of them take place within the end zone after a football player has scored a touch down. They lift the ball toward the crowd, join with other teammates, and do some kind of strange dance as the crowd roars their approval. Other celebrations include the clearing of the dug out as other baseball players join teammates on the pitchers mound, jumping on one another as excited fans scream and yell. In every instance, the celebration is in response to reaching a goal toward which they have been straining for some time. That is what happens in this passage. Some would say that Jesus journey to Jerusalem began at Ceasarea Phillipi and ended at the temple. Others might say it really started at Jesus' baptism, and others still at His birth. And, at one level, each would be correct. However, this journey actually began way back in Genesis 3. Ever since God promised that the seed of the woman would crush the head of the serpent, Jesus has been working with His Father to execute a plan of salvation. Now, as Jesus enters Jerusalem, He is within days of making that plan come true. The long journey is almost over, and salvation is on the horizon. But Jesus doesn't dance in the streets or spike a ball, for this is serious business. He remains focused, disciplined and willing to give His life for our sake. His victory will lead to His death and our life. It's a strange kind of victory, but it is one worthy of celebration.