The Surrender of the Son
In Romans 8:32, Paul says that “He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?” This phrase “gave him up” means to deliver, hand over, surrender or betray. Very strong language. I believe that this verse gets to the heart of the crucifixion event. We often think of Jesus marching, yes with anguish, but nevertheless resolutely up the hill carrying his cross. But what was going on in his heart? How did Jesus experience the cross? This verse lets us in on something we can only barely peer into. Jesus experienced the cross as being delivered up, surrendered or betrayed by the Father he called abba — The one He knew in intimate closeness forever in eternity past. The passion of Jesus was not the physical torment, but the alienation Jesus felt in his separation from the Father. It was the anguish of love beyond our comprehension. This very place is where Jesus draws near to us and meets us in the pain of alienated existence on earth. Jesus knows the plight of God-forsakeness. He is well acquainted with suffering the loss of the most profound love. Where we feel most isolated and alone, Jesus knows us well.
