Reflection

Luke 22:1-62

Jesus has been up to some amazing things the last few days. We have witnessed His wisdom and understanding of our world, and we are all ready to follow Him no matter where He goes. We prepare for and sit down for the Passover meal, thinking it will be like every other time.

We expect to recall and remember the time that God saved our people from Egypt. The way we were called to eat this same meal. When we did it originally, the blood of the lamb was spread over our doorposts. This time, however, Jesus says that the wine in the cup is his blood shed. He goes further to say that the bread is his body broken.

He also points out that one around the table will betray him. We all hope it isn’t us. Though I suspect they know who they are. What a wonderful moment with our Savior, but there is a heaviness in this moment. So the side conversation among many becomes who is the greatest. As Jesus hears this, he calls us all out, sharing that greatness is not what it’s about.

Jesus shares about how his ministry was a servant, not a king with the world’s power. Simon chimes in to say that he will always follow Jesus. Jesus has humbling words telling him he will deny Jesus before the rooster crows.

We get up from the meal and go to the Mount of Olives to pray. While we are there, Jesus is arrested. Someone tries to protect Jesus with violence and cuts the ear of the high priest. Jesus condemns this action, however. After Jesus is arrested, we are all scared. We also, in fact, witness Simon deny Jesus just as Jesus said would happen. How sad we are that things seem to be falling apart, and we aren’t strong enough or bold enough to stand up for our Lord.

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What is wrong with us what we care so much about our status and power? What is wrong with us that we will trade Christ for our own desires? Why do long prayers put us to sleep? The account of Jesus last few hours is quite humbling for all of us as we see ourselves as Judas, Simon, and the disciple who responds with violence.

Devotional Questions

How have you acted like Judas in your life?

How have you acted like Simon in your life?

How have you been like the disciples comparing greatness in your life?

In what different way does Jesus call you to see yourself and live?

Lord, we are humbled by the story of your final hours with the disciples before your crucifixion. Lead us to see the beauty in these heavy moments of your life. Amen.