February 18, 2024: Under Arrest - Hannah Thom

It was night, there were torches, a dispatch of soldiers, swords, groggy disciples and a kiss of betrayal. What a painful moment for Jesus. He knew where this was all going. In the midst of the scene of Jesus being arrested, a disciple grabs a sword and cuts off the ear of the servant of the high priest. Why this? Well, apparently it was a repeat of history: generations before, Antigonus cutting off Hyrcanus’ ears to prevent him from serving in the Temple. It seems the disciple’s action was no accident; it was a retaliation.

In the midst of the commotion Jesus demands a halt to all of this. He is not leading a rebellion, and there is no need for swords and clubs. He knows what he has been called to do, and he is willing to go to the place God has in store for him. He does not blame, condemn or even retaliate. This teaches us something about the heart of Jesus – a heart that is set on the things of God – not on the ideas of human beings.

In this teaching, we will dwell on the heart of Jesus revealed in this story. In the midst of betrayal he calls Judas “friend.” In the midst of violence against his enemies, he announces peace and pardon. For Jesus this is the start of the manner in which he will walk to the cross. One defined by love.