Only one of Jesus’ disciples was at the cross when He was crucified. Where were the others? There is a lot of speculation. They were afraid, they still didn’t understand what Jesus was doing, they didn’t believe. Even having spent time on earth in the presence of Jesus, watching and learning from Him, they were still like me.
Now I understand and believe what Jesus did for me, but would I have been aware of this profound truth as it was happening? I hope I would be like John or Mary and Mary Magdalene at the foot of the cross in love and worship. But I don’t know. Am I at the cross today, all day, every day?
I’ve been getting closer and staying longer. In my younger years, the cross was far off. I could see the cross and Jesus on it, but I wasn’t sure what that meant for me. Soon I began speaking to Him, but not at the cross. I preferred to speak with Him like a friend who could love and help me. Then, the rough times. I took a closer look at His sacrifice and asked, “What does this mean for me, Lord?” I walked away and back, each time drawing closer as He showed me His grace and mercy and how He wanted to bless me.
And now I linger long hours at the park in joyous gratitude for His sacrifice and love for me. I ask now, “What would you have me do for you, Lord?”
Then Jesus said to this disciples, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.” Matt 16:24-26
Meeting God at the Park 