49Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, "Greetings, Rabbi!" and kissed him.
50Jesus replied, "Do what you came for, friend." Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him.
51With that, one of Jesus’ companions reached for his sword, drew it out and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.
- P142
54But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?"
55In that hour Jesus said to the crowd, "Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me? Every day I sat in the temple courts teaching, and you did not arrest me.
56But this has all taken place that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled." Then all the disciples deserted him and fled.
- P143
CaIn the chaos of Jesus‘ betrayal and arrest, the disciples respond with bothfight and flight, but Jesus remains calm and composed. He denounces ceviolence from both His captors and His disciples, revealing His completecontrol over the moment as He willingly submits to arrest. He uses Hisauthority to fulfill the Scriptures, even at His own expense. We often reactto difficulty by fighting or fleeing, especially when we are bent on self-preservation. Jesus could have displayed His authority through force, butHe chooses to reveal it through peace. When our purpose is clear and fixedon God‘s will, we can have peace in the face of great danger. - P144
We mustuse wisdom in every situation and not needlessly put ourselves and thosearound us at risk. But whatever we face, we can trust that our lives are inGod‘s hands. Our peace reflects our trust in His authority.- P144
Dear Jesus, thank You for showing us true love and sacrifice. When we facehard situations, help us follow Your example and respond with Your wisdom.
In Your name, amen.- P145
