Happy Easter: (Re)committing ourselves to God

Release is a scary thing. But every now and again, life asks us to let go of something—a job, a special relationship, a bad attitude, or some cherished hobby or habit. Other times it asks us to let go by actively embracing something new. This uncomfortable process involves releasing our need to control (or feel in control) and opening ourselves to the unknown other side. When the call to let go comes, we feel tension and unease within because we don’t like feeling vulnerable or having our “fate” in someone else’s hands. Sadly, we feel that way even when those hands are God’s.

But not so with Jesus. He released or gave himself fully to God in life and death with reckless abandon. His entire earthly life was characterized by a deep humility and dependence on God, holding nothing back.  In fact, his reliance on God was so complete that he called obeying him his food and drink, his very sustenance (Jn. 4:34). He was happy to relinquish all claims to himself. He released.

In the garden of Gethsemane as he wrestled with the pain of his impending death, he once again chose to yield to God. With blood running down his temples like sweat, he chose God’s will over his own (Lk. 22:42). He released.

As he hung on the cross, with flesh torn and bloodied body unrecognizable, he once again entrusted himself to his Father when he uttered the immortal words “into thy hands I commit my spirit” (Lk. 23:46). He was once again giving his very essence—everything that remained—to God. He released.

This Easter, may we be reminded that we are not our own. Our lives are his. This life that we now live in the flesh is a crucified life; it’s no longer about us but about He who died for us (Gal. 2:20). May we, like Christ, commit our spirits—the very core of us—to God. Release.