The Victory of Surrender

“And He was saying, “Abba! Father! All things are possible for You; remove this cup from Me; yet not what I will, but what You will.” Mark 14:36

We Americans take pride in who we are. When we see the word surrender, it’s not something we think of as positive. Surrender is what our enemies have always done. We think of the Alamo, where 250 men, including Davey Crockett, William Travis, and James Bowie, fought to the last man rather than surrender. The ancient Spartans, mothers would hand their sons their shields and say, “Return with your shield, or on it.” It meant: come back victorious (carrying your shield) or come back dead (carried on it)—but never return in cowardice by throwing your shield away to run or surrender.

From a Christian perspective, individuals are encouraged to align their will with that of God. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus confronted the forthcoming challenges of the cross, fully aware of the suffering, shame, and separation from the Father that awaited Him. His prayer reflects both His humanity and divinity, expressing a wish for relief while simultaneously demonstrating a commitment to fulfill the Father’s will.

True strength is not found in clinging to our own desires but in surrendering to God’s plan. Our culture often defines strength as independence, control, and self-sufficiency. But in God’s kingdom, strength is revealed when we release our grip and trust His will.

Jesus shows us that surrender is not a sign of weakness; instead, it is the pathway to victory. Through His surrender came the salvation of the world. Through our surrender comes peace, freedom, and the power to live in God’s strength rather than our own.

Your shepherd,

Pastor Mark