Judas approached Jesus with a crowd of men to arrest him. The hour had come. Jesus did not rebuke or shame him but gave him a final opportunity to change his mind and repent. The disciples reacted to betrayal by drawing their swords, but Jesus responded differently. He showed God's way by not retaliating against his enemies. He healed the servant's ear and was arrested and led away.

Peter followed the soldiers at a distance because fear had plagued his heart. When some people around him identified him as one of Jesus' followers, he denied it. When he did so the third time, the rooster crowed, and-immediately-Peter remembered Jesus' words. He broke down in tears in recognition of his sin and shortcomings. Moments of failure can be significant turning points in our lives to repent before God and to know our identities. We are sinners who need His grace, more than our own human strength, ability, merit, or zeal.

The following morning, Jesus was led to stand before the religious leaders. They knew in their hearts that Jesus was indeed from God, but their hearts were darkened as they were determined to kill him. When asked if he was the Son of God, Jesus answered, "You are right in saying I am" (70). Unlike Peter, Jesus stood firm in his identity, not shaken by man, and was ready to go to the cross.


Application: Thank you for going to the cross in spite of my failure and for taking my place. We acknowledge that you are the Son of God.
One Word: Jesus, the Messiah, the Son of God