the Deleted Scenes

For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. (This) proves God’s love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us. For if while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of God’s Son, much more surely… will we be saved by his life. Romans 5:6, 8, 10

When I finish watching a really good DVD movie I click on the special features. Commonly there is a section called “deleted scenes.” These include often powerful parts of the story that for undisclosed reasons got cut.

Each year in re-reading the gospel accounts of holy week I wonder why some of these scenes were not cut. They are embarrassing to both the disciples and Jesus.

The disciples are slow learners and often don’t get who Jesus was or what he taught. They can’t stay awake when he needs them to be alert and supportive. They all desert. Judas skulks away, only later to return with a kiss. Peter denies three times. Jesus tells them repeatedly he will die but they don’t believe him.

Good film editors might have deleted scenes that make the lead character look bad. Not Mark, Luke, Matthew or John. They keep it all in—good, bad and ugly. I’m so glad. If God deleted the disciples for their poor understanding or lack of faith, surely God would need to delete me and you!

The good news of Jesus’ passion, death and resurrection is that, for clearly disclosed reasons, God loves us. Without condition. Especially when we do not deserve it. Amazing God!

Steve Langhofer Walking the Road

Steve Langhofer is the Senior Pastor at Asbury United Methodist Church. Email him at stevel@visitasbury.org