Mark14:39-42

“Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? It is enough; the hour has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners”

Jesus has returned from the third time of praying and finds the disciples asleep once more. However, instead of feeling exasperated by their inability to remain awake, He is now resigned to the fact that His time of suffering and following His Father’s will is about to begin. The challenge and horror that faces Him will not pass from Him. The cross and all that goes with it will be His to bear alone. He tells the disciples that the time has come for the Father’s will to be done, that He will be betrayed into the hands of sinners.

Have you ever thought about the disciple’s reaction to that statement, and whether the disciples felt they played a role in His betrayal, and whether we play a role? People may say to themselves, “If I was alive during that time, I never would have gone along with or contributed to His betrayal!” Consider the fact that even in present day, we take actions which could mirror Christ’s betrayal. Actions or activities focused on seeking the approval of the world, taking His name in vain, dishonoring the grace and mercy He freely gives. Any of these actions, anything we do that is inconsistent or unworthy of the sacrifice He made, is an act of betrayal. The disciples themselves were the first betrayers as they were not able to stay awake and watch, per Jesus’ simple request. We must remain awake and alert, so we do not betray our Lord.

Heavenly Father, I am saddened by the failure of Jesus’ disciples and the treachery of Judas. Yet, dear Father, I fear that I also see in them a bit of myself. Thank you for not letting the story end here—in defeat and desertion. Thank you for Jesus’ faithfulness through the horrible ordeal that begins here and will not end until your Son’s lifeless body is laid in a tomb. Thank you for giving Jesus victory over death and bringing us triumph over sin. Thank you, Jesus, for all that You endured when You had the power to prevent it. In the name of the crucified and now risen Savior. Amen.

Contributed by Tara Boehne