“So when the centurion, who stood opposite Him, saw that He cried out like this and breathed His last, he said, “Truly this Man was the Son of God!” – Mark 15:39 (NKJV)
We often hear when great people do great things. I reflect on the passing of one of our dedicated and faithful pastors, Raphael Jackman. He was an accomplished servant of God. On the night of reflection celebrating his life; his amazing achievements were highlighted, bringing many people together as they talked about all his significant accomplishments. One of his favourite phrases was “I got you”. What struck my heart, however, is that he may not have been able to beat his ailment but that’s not always the final accomplishment that makes someone great. His great achievement is that he was truly committed to his task. He stayed the course and worked hard for the kingdom to the end. That is what truly makes someone great.
Jesus made some gigantic accomplishments while He walked here on earth. He healed the sick, made the blind see, cast out demons, walked on water, raised people from the dead, taught large crowds, and performed many more miracles. And yet, even in His death, He made an enormous impact on those around Him. When the centurion saw how Jesus died, he then realised that He is indeed the Son of God. It was, however, how Jesus lived His everyday life that influenced lives, not just the grandeur actions that drew the crowds to Him.
Jesus lived such a life of integrity and honour that even in His dying moments, He didn’t crumble but showed His Godliness. This is a magnificent lesson that it is not just in our great accomplishments that Jesus shows us to be great; it is in every suffering and celebration that we are to be like Him.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank you for bearing our sins on the cross. We often only look to the result to celebrate achievements. And yet it is in the small things in life that we can show our sincere heart. Help us oh Lord to have integrity, even in the small things. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Read: Mark 15: 1-47
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 5:1-14; Mark 2:18-28; Mark 3:1-30; Exodus 21; Exodus 22
