April 4, 1998

Mark 14: 32-72, 15: 1-47

The Flesh Is Weak

"And he said to them - Keep watch and pray that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak."

-Mark 14:38

How often do we resolve to do so many wonderful acts for our fellow mankind but do just that, resolve, and do not put into action all those things that would ease someone's pain and suffering? How often do we make a snide remark that would hurt the feelings of an individual and cause them to withdraw and possibly feel inferior? How often do we pass on a bit of juicy gossip? How often do we fail to praise a shy child when he has done something commendable? This could give him the feeling of self esteem that is needed to make him more comfortable around his peers and let him know that he is a child of God. How often do we just take the easy way out and not volunteer to do a task that would make our church a better place for all whom enter it and participate in its activities? How often do we say "I'm going to visit the elderly and the sick," but find ourselves going to the mall shopping or just sitting around doing nothing productive?

All the above are examples where the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak.

In this Lenten season, let us ponder this verse.

'Twas I that shed the sacred blood
I nailed Him to the tree
I crucified the Christ of God
I joined the mockery! Anonymous

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Prayer: Lord, remind me that Your death was a sacrifice for my sins. Thank you. [Yesterday |Lenten Index | Tomorrow]