Drinking the Cup

To demonstrate divine power over human opposition, the Father could have removed “the cup” his Son would drink in six hours—but he didn’t. Jesus could have just walked away as he had on other occasions—but he didn’t (Luke 4:30; John 8:99; 10:39). He could have restrained the acts of his enemies, caused them to cower in apprehension (John 18:6) or walk away astounded at his powerful words (John 7:45)—but he didn’t (John 7:46; 18:6). He did not let his disciples fight for him (Matthew 26:51-52). He could have called for more than 60,000 angels to protect him—but he didn’t; one came to strengthen him (Luke 22:43ms). He could have come down from the cross in spectacular confrontation before everyone at Golgotha—but he didn’t. In short, he rid himself of all defenses, material and supernatural. “No one is taking my life away from me,” he said; “I am laying it down voluntarily” (John 10:17-18).

Instead of the powerful alternatives, Jesus chose the most stupendous exhibition of power ever shown to mankind: he rose from the dead after three days as he had predicted. He demonstrated the power to “take up his life” from death itself (John 10:18). Crucifixion became the prelude to resurrection.

We commemorate now the run-up to Jesus’ greatest miracle, his most outstanding deed. In that connection, these symbols of his body given and his blood shed celebrate the triumph of good over evil. Partaking of these symbols anticipates partaking of that triumph with him. So be it.