He Could Have Called It All Off

On this Good Friday, as I read through the Scripture account of that dark day long ago, I am struck by the words of Jesus to his disciples who wanted to get a little reckless with their swords, fighting off the arrest.  Jesus said, "Do you not think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels?  But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?"  Our Savior could have played his card of authority at any moment, stopped all the madness and halted all the pain and humiliation.  He could have beckoned an angel army when he sweat drops of blood in the Garden.  But he did not.  He could have cried uncle when he was spit on, and when that crown of thorns was smashed on his head.  But he did not.  And most certainly, at the moment of greatest physical agony, when nails were driven through his hands and feet and when his flesh screamed in anguish on that cross, he could have so easily wiped every one out and displayed his Mighty Power.  But he did not.  Hallelujah, What a Savior!!!
      In the church where I grew up, our music director often sang a song during Holy Week that has stuck with me decades later.  The lyrics simply state, "He could have called ten thousand angels...but He died alone for you and me."  I am in awe today of the human part of Jesus who endured such suffering all the way to the end, mostly in silence, persevering until he could say those three words that sealed my salvation:  "It is finished."  Jesus was a finisher.  He had every reason to take one of the many outs available to him all during that Friday long ago.  And because he outrageously loves you and me, He never wavered and He finished the job.  Thank you, oh my Savior.  This day is only "Good" because of what you accomplished on that cross.  I am a deeply grateful daughter today of the Most High God...completely saved by grace.