There is now no doubt where this is heading. Jesus, in the garden, is fully aware of his destination. Theologians speak of something called his "messianic consciousness," his growing understanding during life of his calling and mission. His growing awareness of God, of himself, of man during his ministry prevented him from any false illusions during the triumphal entry a few days prior. But the starkness of his calling was now immediately before him. He has "always done those things which pleased the Father." But in pleasing the Father he has displeased sinful man. And the Father will not rescue him from the awful results of that displeasure. In fact, it is the Father's "good pleasure" to see his only Son die as the result of a life lived righteously. It is the ultimate judgment on humankind to see it rise up and slay the only righteous one who ever lived. And yet, the one life lived in righteousness has established historically the righteousness of God. Unrighteous mankind brings the judgment of God on itself in slaying God's only Son. For mankind, Jesus lived in righteousness and died as its judgment. Historically, sin has proven itself to be utterly sinful. Jesus submits to the consequences of human sin against his righteous self and in so doing remains righteous to the end. God cannot rescue his son until sin has run its course. But then, Easter. God cannot allow sin to have the final say. God cannot allow the sinfulness of man to seal the fate of man. He delivers his Son after sin has finished its most sinful act. And in so doing God vindicates the righteousness of his Son, receives Jesus' righteousness in history as representing the human race, accepts the judgment on his Son as judgment for the race and is vindicated in his desire for human righteousness on earth. Jesus becomes the firstborn of all that is new. He presents in himself what we all shall be in faith. We have risen with Jesus to new life. He has included us in his own presentation of righteousness to God. "If then ye be risen with Christ keep seeking the things above where Christ is seated at the right hand of God." Happy Easter to all this glorious week.