4 October | Youth
«Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.» John 15:13
In a funny interview, some famous people were asked what they would do if they only had 24 hours to live. The answers were curious and, at the same time, tragic. They included: eating a lot, drinking a lot of alcohol, sleeping all the time, doing something crazy, staying with their dogs and partying. Only a few said they would stay with their family or do good for someone. And you? If you could plan, what would you do on your last day of life?
When I read the gospels, I am struck by Jesus' final 24 hours before the cross. At no point did He think about Himself or His own comfort. On the contrary, the Master's words and actions were aimed solely at others. His focus was loving, serving and saving. On that Thursday night, before offering supper, Jesus took a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet; this was a slave’s job. Who would do this in the final hours of their existence? This act signified the purest essence of humility, indicating that, in the kingdom of God, the greatest is the one who serves.
In His parting words, hours before going to the “slaughterhouse,” Jesus comforted the hearts of the disciples: “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; […] I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:1-2). How extraordinary! He who had nowhere to rest His head was more concerned about the homes of those who would abandon Him.
After suffering extreme anguish in Gethsemane, Jesus spent the entire night without sleeping. Have you ever stayed up all night? It is bad, isn't it? Tired, hungry and thirsty, Christ faced several fraudulent trials during the night. Whippings, spitting, punches and a crown of thorns disfigured His body. However, they were unable to steal the peace and love from His heart.
And finally, on that Friday morning, the Lamb of God was lifted up on the cross, suffering the punishment for our sins. This is how Jesus spent His final hours: giving His life for you. Is it not the best motivation for us to live today?