Neither Could I

 by Macy Johnson

“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me;

yet not my will, but yours be done.”

(Luke 22:42 NIV)

 

The Maundy Thursday communion service touched my heart. The choir sang two pieces from our Easter cantata and I was filled with the Holy Spirit. When I got home, my husband and I anxiously waited for our daughter and her family to arrive from Birmingham.

 

The party started after my bedtime, but I did not mind. We grabbed flashlights and hurried down to the dock to observe the stars as they sparkled against a velvet sky. Jeff checked the fishing poles while Libby and I discussed the upcoming weekend’s festivities.

 

I finally said ‘good night’ and climbed into bed while Jeff went to the cabin to watch a basketball game on TV with our guests. I woke up around 2:00 and complained, “Lord, I cannot sleep.”

 

“Neither could I,” He replied, and I was suddenly transported to the time between His betrayal and crucifixion. Jesus could not rest until he sacrificed His life for me.

 

“I cannot get up,” I moaned as I rolled out of bed on Easter morning. “Neither could I,” Jesus reminded me. “My Father raised me from death in the grave. He will raise you, too!”

 

As I walked into the sanctuary that special Sunday morning and looked across the room filled with worshipers I confessed, “I cannot do this, Lord, but I will trust the Holy Spirit to enable me to serve as a musician in your kingdom today.” How many times must I admit my weakness before I realize He is strong and able to do all things, including die for me, or play the piano through me?

 

I will trust my heavenly Father to do His will in and through me, because I cannot. I hope you will, too!