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 The name Golgotha – “the place of the skull” – paints a vivid and somber picture. This hill, situated just outside the ancient city of Jerusalem, holds a significant place in history and belief. More than simply a location, Golgotha embodies a powerful duality, a place where the harsh reality of mortality intersects with the promise of renewal. This “place of the skull” stands as a testament to profound contrasts, a site where the finality of death gave way to the dawn of new beginnings. From the connotations of decay inherent in its name, to the transformative potential of the pivotal event that transpired there, Golgotha invites contemplation on the enduring themes of sacrifice and the possibility of life emerging from death. A collective reflection on God’s grace and our chances for renewal Tuesday, April 15, 2025 |
To stand taller Matthew 26:31-35, 69-75 Remember when we were knee-deep in football season, scrolling through our social feeds and seeing athletes boldly profess their faith in Jesus? Wasn’t that awesome?! I remember thinking that if they could do that, everyday people could too! That got me thinking – how can people show their allegiance to Jesus today? It could be through what people wear, in their tattoos, through their home décor, placed in Zoom or Teams backgrounds, as bumper stickers; it could be Bibles lying in plain sight on coffee tables or work desks, and even social media check-ins at churches … my list kept growing, and I got excited. But then I noticed I wasn’t seeing as much as I’d thought. I questioned why I wasn’t demonstrating to the world that Jesus was my guy? Where’s my courage? Am I denying him? Peter, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, walked with Jesus, witnessed his miracles firsthand, and emphatically stated, “Jesus, I will never desert you.” But Jesus knew Peter well and said, “Yes, you will; in fact, you’ll deny three times that you know me before the rooster crows.” Then Jesus was arrested, and his disciples scattered. Peter followed him through the night. Twice, Peter was asked, “Hey, aren’t you with that Jesus fellow?” And Peter’s like, “Nah, I’ve got no clue what you’re talking about.” I wonder why Peter denied him? Maybe he was curious and wanted to stay undetected to see what was happening? Or perhaps he was afraid if people linked him to Jesus, he would also face beating and torture? Whatever the reason, the third time Peter is asked and denies he’s with Jesus, that rooster crows. Jesus’ words come back to Peter, and Peter weeps bitterly. I feel Peter’s grief, shame, and disappointment. I see myself in that moment with Peter. How often have I skirted admitting I’m a Christian? How often have I wanted my faith to go unnoticed by others? But here’s the amazing thing, Jesus didn’t leave Peter in that place of failure. Remember, Jesus told Peter and the disciples he must die, and he’d meet Peter later in Galilee. Jesus’ death is significant. His death nails all our sins, denials, and failures to the cross and says, “No more.” Jesus knew Peter would fail but also knew Peter would rise again with his help. Jesus’ love, grace, and mercy restored Peter. And this continues today for each of us. So today, I want my life to be a testament to Jesus. To stand taller in my faith. To live out items on that list, I created. I’m inspired by those courageous athletes professing on-live-camera their allegiance to Jesus. I’m going to stand taller today and tomorrow. How about you? By Marnie Vasquez |
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