I AM Greater than what people do

BY REV. DORAL PULLEY 

• Scripture – “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do (Luke 23:34).”
• Denial – “People’s actions are not greater than the I AM.”
• Affirmation – “I forgive people for what they do.”

They did a lot Jesus on the cross. They nailed his hands and his feet. They pierced him in his side. They put a crown of thorns on his head. They beat him leaving 40 stripes on his back. They gave him vinegar to drink. They sold his clothes and left him naked. They persecuted him while he was in pain.

Jesus allowed them to do what they needed to do and he did what he needed to do.  Through his words and his actions, it is evident what Jesus needed to do: maintain his relationship with his Father, himself and the ones that he loved. He needed to talk to his Father and get clarity about what was taking place. “My God, my God why have you forsaken me (Matthew 27:46).” He needed to speak up for himself and his needs. “I thirst (John 19:28).”  He needed to ensure that his mom and his faithful friend were taken care of. “Woman, behold your son. Son, behold your mother (John 19:26).”

Let us not be distracted by the actions of others because we have no control over what other people choose to do. Instead, in any given situation let us focus on what is that God is calling us to do and do it to the best of our ability. When we don’t know what to do, let us center ourselves in the presence of God and allow the I AM to give us direction and empowerment for the next right action.

Reflection Question – How can you disempower the actions of others and empower yourself?