Journey Through Lent

The Cup of Many Colors

Scripture: Matthew 26:39

As we journey through the season of Lent, many Christians turn their focus to the last week of Jesus' life. We read and reread the Gospel stories leading up to His death and resurrection.

In the Gospel of Matthew, we remember Jesus praying before His arrest in the garden of Gethsemane. In Matthew 26:39, it says, “Going a little farther, He fell with His face to the ground and prayed, ‘My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will.’”

Let’s focus on the phrase, “may this cup be taken from Me.” What is the cup being described? It is the cup of wrath that Jesus had to drink in order to free all sinners. During a Bible study this month, a participant highlighted the significance of this cup of wrath. He invited us to imagine that each of us had a certain color in the cup that Jesus had to drink representing our portion of sin. If each sinner could picture their own color, they might better understand just how deeply Jesus loves them.

I loved this imagery and took it to heart. I saw my own sin as a color in the cup of wrath. In my mind, my color filled most of the cup! And because of His immense love for me, Jesus drank it.

Dear reader, during this Lenten season, may we acknowledge our failures and sins against God. May we seek repentance—acknowledging our wrongdoing, sincerely apologizing before the Lord, and committing to change our behavior in the future. Though it may not be comfortable to talk about sin, it is necessary in order to reach the other side—the love, peace, and forgiveness that the Lord offers.

Remember, Easter is coming! Jesus died, descended, and rose again to cleanse us and make us spotless before the throne of God. It is my prayer that everyone will accept Jesus' love for them. No matter what you’ve done in the past, it’s okay—because Easter is here. Embrace this truth.

Reflection Questions and Path to Action:

1. How does envisioning your sin in the cup of wrath help you understand that Jesus died for you?

2. Take time during Holy Week to prepare your heart for Easter. Repent and wholly accept Jesus' forgiveness.

   
   

   

   Run to Jesus' open arms!