I am sure some of you are action movie buffs and Extraction is on the list of many movie-lovers. Personally, I would not use a movie to illustrate my point, but this one may work. I will leverage the creative genius of the writer to illustrate the great exchange.
“45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”
-Mark 10:45
While in this movie the ransom is not paid for the kidnapped boy, the protagonist pays with his life but in the end, it is left to the imagination of the viewers to deduce that the protagonist does live. Almost like a parallel to our Lord and Savior. I am not surprised that the author took inspiration from the life of Jesus – it is an inspiring story.
This is the way I look at it – when we believe we are sinners, ask for forgiveness, know that Jesus’ blood will cleanse us and submit to Him as our Lord and Savior that is when the great exchange starts. We begin on that short walk between evil and pure goodness, led by Jesus. If we keep our eyes on the goodness with outstretched arms, walk alongside Jesus, moved by the Holy Spirit, then the walk will be exciting. We will be filled with anticipation, bursting with joy and see God running towards us.
‘20 “And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. ‘
-Luke 15:20
In the movie Extraction, commotion unfolds during the exchange, lots of screaming and confusion. This is the final chance for the bad guy to harm the hostage and the extractor. Such is the way of evil. Our walk with Jesus is going to be under attack, our minds will be messed with, our faith questioned and our will tempted.
‘10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.’
-Ephesians 6:10-13
So, Paul says we have to be suited up in the armor of God for that walk. Let’s suit up brothers and sisters! We have an exciting walk, one that ends in pure joy and love. Let’s stay on target, walk beside the one who gave up His life for us. Listening to the one that nudges and pushes us towards the truth and watch our Father come running towards us with outstretched arms.
Dear Jesus,
Your loving-kindness has made it so that I can enjoy eternal bliss. Help me stay focused on you and align my will with Yours so that I stay alert against darkness and reach Home in the safety of Your protection. Amen.