John 18: 1-9
When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was an olive grove, and he and his disciples went into it.
Now Judas, who betrayed him knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciplines. So Judas came to the grove, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and Pharisees. They were caring torches, lanterns and weapons.
Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?”
“Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied.
“I am he,” Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.) When Jesus said, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground.
Again he asked them, “Who is it you want?”
And they said, “Jesus of Nazareth.”
“I told you that I am he,” Jesus answered. “If you are looking for me, then let these men go.” This happened so that the words he had spoken would be fulfilled: “I have not lost one of those you gave me.”
A Thought
Jesus has shared the Last Supper with his disciples, washed their feet, and told them things to help prepare them for what will soon take place–his death, resurrection, and his return to earth. Jesus knowing what is about to happen, is praying in the olive grove when he is betrayed by Judas and arrested by very large number of soldiers and officials carrying torches, lanterns and weapons. Much to their surprise, Jesus tells them that he is Jesus of Nazareth the one they are looking to arrest. Jesus told them to let the others go to fulfill what he had spoken earlier. Everything has now been completed for the blood sacrifice of beatings and death on the cross to take place for our full redemption.
Our Prayer
Father this week is hard for me to be reminded of the great cost of the sacrifice that Jesus made because of my sin and disobedience. Help us never forget your love and mercy for each of us that you sent you own Son to die the death that we deserved to go through. Strengthen each of us to be your disciples and to make disciples for you. We ask in Jesus’ name, amen.
