Morning is here and I am greeting it with a cup of Door County Irish Crème Coffee and a smile. Any day that let's me start in prayer and coffee is a blessing.
Hebrews 5:7-9 New International Version (NIV)
7 During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. 8 Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered 9 and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him
We often see pictures of Jesus with children being brought to Him or we see Him healing the lepers. Some paintings I have seen show Him teaching on the mountain side or eating a dinner with His disciples. We have read about Him weeping with the sister of Lazarus and showing compassion to a prostitute. We see Him in obedience as He was baptized in the river. He showed us tenderness, gentleness and sensitivity. He was a man of prayer, mercy and forgiveness. He always went above and beyond for everyone.
We don't always see these qualities in ourselves as men. But yet as much as Jesus was tender and merciful, Jesus was a tough as can be. He stood and carried a cross after a terrible flogging and beating. He set out to complete His mission to redeem the world from sin and saw it through unto death. During interrogations he was cool and composed. He didn't complain or argue. He displayed the toughness of courage, determination, wisdom and self control.
I would say that within this world we as men would do well to adopt all of the qualities of Jesus. In his tenderness toward others we can see courage and strength. He comforted the prostitute and yet silenced the crowd who was ready to stone her.
Friends, I would have to say that Jesus was the perfect example of what a man should be. Manly yes, but He was tender hearted too. Our goal should be to imitate Him. He set the bar high and we would do well to follow in His footsteps.
Food For thought.
Marty
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