Mark 14:43-52
Jesus Arrested

Even though Jesus was teaching in the temple courts every day, a detachment of soldiers (John 18:12) came to arrest him, armed with swords and clubs. Judas, Jesus' disciple, came to betray Jesus with a kiss--a form of greeting used to give respect to the one receiving the kiss. Yet for Judas it was an act of betrayal.

In the three synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) the passages of Jesus arrest describe the arresting group as a crowd, and Matthew and Mark add that it was sent from the chief priests, and that they were armed. John adds that it is Peter who cut off the high priest's servant's ear, and Luke, the doctor, adds that Jesus touched the man's ear and healed him. Jesus told Peter to put away his sword (John 18:11) and that he will drink the cup his Father has for him.

The Scripture must be fulfilled, Jesus says in this passage--referring to Isaiah 53:7-12, where Isaiah writes in verse 7: "He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth." (NIV)

Even in his arrest, Jesus accepts his circumstance, protects his disciples (John 18:8) and incredibly heals a servant. He submits to the Father's will and continues to love and serve those around him.

Do I love my enemies or perceived enemies in such a fashion? How willing am I to protect those who are close to me? Jesus sets an amazing example for us to follow, even in the most difficult of situations.

- posted by Suzi @ 8:30 AM