Hello everybody! God has blessed us here in Texas with a gorgeous Fall day and cooler temps. Each day He makes His world renewed as the seasons come and go, and we have the joy of witnessing this repeating miracle of life! God is Good!
This is Katrinka writing today. The passage we are reading together is John 18:1-11. As I read I am struck by how much is stuffed into this very short passage! Scripture is amazingly rich and each time we read we grasp more and see new aspects that we missed before. Be sure and take time to read it for yourself and be blessed in that reading from God's Word.
First, I noticed something about Jesus' daily routine while here on this planet Earth. He had a favorite spot that gave Him peace and rest.
On the other side there was an olive grove.... Jesus had often met there with his disciples. (v. 1-2)
On this monumental night just before His crucifixion, Jesus went to the olive grove where he often met with his disciples. He did not go to a "church building" or synagogue, he did not seek bright lights and city attractions, instead he took refuge in the beauty and peace of nature--of a world He created! I have several spots where I love to go and take in God's creation. Not a day goes by that I don't enjoy the trees and the grass and the sky. This ever-changing evidence of God comfort my soul and bring renewed strength to my life. Do you have such a place?
I have been to that very spot where this passage takes place - the Garden of Gethsemane. It is located just outside the walls of old Jerusalem. Olive trees are still standing that were present when Jesus was there! Amazing! We do not have to see in person to believe but, somehow, standing in Bible places brings the Bible even more alive to my mind. The Bible account of Jesus' life are fact, not fiction. History supports its claims as well as archealogical research. We have every reason to trust and believe the Bible. It IS the word of God.
Second, I am given a glimpse at the amazing Presence of our Lord Jesus. When the soldiers came to arrest Him, they came prepared for a fight. And yet, when they approached, the first thing they met was a civil question instead of resistance: "Who is it you want?" Jesus asked. The soldiers answered: "Jesus of Nazareth."
When Jesus said, "I am he," they drew back and fell to the ground." (v. 6)
Now what is so scary about that answer? Obviously there was something majestic, something powerful, something Awesome about Jesus. He did not need to brandish a sword or threaten them by a powerful show of force. No, he simply answered and offered Himself into their hands. What is pathetic is that a short while later, we read in verse 12 that they bound Him! A little late for that if Jesus wanted to get away, right?
Third and last, Jesus takes care of His own.
"If you are looking for me, then let these men go." (v. 8)
His only concern was for the safety and release of His disciples, not for Himself. He laid down His life for us willingly. Nobody took Him by force and made Him go through the crucifixion against His will. No, on the contrary, knowing what was coming, Jesus our Lord went peacefully, encouraging his captors to let his friends go in freedom.
The sad thing is that they did go. Only a few hung around to see what was going to happen. Why is it that we humans are so often scared enough by something to abandon our good intentions and plans and resort to cowardice in the face of opposition to our faith? I guess we can't say anything against the disciples because we still do the same thing sometimes in our own lives.
Jesus, the sweetest name I know! When we see Him, we see the Father, he taught. We are told that God is LOVE, and in this great time of sacrifice in the life of our beloved Lord, if we see nothing else--we see LOVE.
It is my prayer, dear Lord, that you will keep your Love shining in this dark world. Please give us courage and conviction to stand up for your beautiful Name, and never be frightened into running away or denying you. Thank you for you beautiful example of Love -- laying down your life for not only your friends, but for your enemies!
In Jesus' precious name we pray,
Amen
Comments, please! It would be so great if you would please write a comment and share in this conversation we have here each day. I always look to see what you have written. Your thoughts matter! We love to know them. God bless you!
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