Slices
Prepare
Put yourself in the picture as one of those deserting Jesus. Where do you go? What is running through your mind? How do you feel?
Bible passage
Jesus arrested
43 Just as he was speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, appeared. With him was a crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders.
44 Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: ‘The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard.’ 45 Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, ‘Rabbi!’ and kissed him. 46 The men seized Jesus and arrested him. 47 Then one of those standing near drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.
48 ‘Am I leading a rebellion,’ said Jesus, ‘that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me? 49 Every day I was with you, teaching in the temple courts, and you did not arrest me. But the Scriptures must be fulfilled.’ 50 Then everyone deserted him and fled.
51 A young man, wearing nothing but a linen garment, was following Jesus. When they seized him, 52 he fled naked, leaving his garment behind.
Explore
Now and then I have a vivid dream that stays with me, troubling me far into waking hours. Last night as I slept, I watched as two girls sunning themselves in the shallows of a muddy river were attacked by a crocodile. Or rather, I shouted a warning and then ran for my own life and left them to their fate. Dream though it was, I’m feeling ashamed and discomfited. Asleep or awake, am I unable to override my instinct for self-preservation? Would I have run off naked rather than stay to do what I could to protect Jesus, or at least prove a faithful friend? Regrettably, probably.
Jesus knew he would be betrayed by Judas and deserted by both followers and friends. His crucifixion was for an ungrateful and rather pitiful bunch like us: ‘while we were still sinners, Christ died for us’ (Romans 5:8). He knew that down the ages, he would continue to be rejected and mocked. It is our privilege to face the same treatment. By the power of the Holy Spirit, may we stand strong, and when we don’t manage, give thanks for grace and do better next time.
Respond
2 Timothy 3:12 says, ‘… everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted’. Ask God to strengthen your heart in him so that when you are tested, you are ready.
Bible in a year
Read the Bible in a year: Judges 3,4; Mark 1
Pray for Scripture Union
Geoff Brown, Mission Enabler in the north region, has been running a pilot called Story Explorers with a Faith Guide, which sees primary school assembly children invited to come back to explore the story at lunch time after an initial assembly. Pray that he will know how best to roll this out to other Faith Guides and Mission Partners.
