“... let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will but as thou wilt.”

Matthew 26:39

The nevertheless theology comes clear in many biblical illustrations. St. Paul tells his student, Timothy (2 Timothy 1:18) that he will find Christians who have “swerved from the truth.” “Nevertheless God’s firm foundation stands, the Lord knows who are his.” The great example, the great nevertheless comes when
Jesus contemplates the walk before him — the scorn, suffering, even tortured death, and he cries out, “Let this cup pass from me.” Nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou (my father) wilt. With that example clearly before us, with new aches or pains or fading vision and memory that may come to us with the advancing years, we can say, nevertheless, I can walk with my hand in your powerful hand through whatever may come, with joy, knowing your love supports me, and my years are in your hand.

Constance Bretscher
Valparaiso, IN

Dearest Lord Jesus, give me the strength, wisdom, and joy to serve you as I am able. Amen.

Reflect: Teach me to focus on what I can still do to serve you with true joy.

Read: Matthew 28:8-18 and John 11:27-30