John 18:1-9 "Who Do You Seek?"

When Jesus had spoken these words, He went forth with His disciples over the ravine of the Kidron, where there was a garden, in which He entered with His disciples.  Now Judas also, who was betraying Him, knew the place, for Jesus had often met there with His disciples.  Judas then, having received the Roman cohort and officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, came there with lanterns and torches and weapons.  So Jesus, knowing all the things that were coming upon Him, went forth and said to them, “Whom do you seek?”  They answered Him, “Jesus the Nazarene.” He said to them, “I am He.” And Judas also, who was betraying Him, was standing with them.  So when He said to them, “I am He,” they drew back and fell to the ground.  Therefore He again asked them, “Whom do you seek?” And they said, “Jesus the Nazarene.” Jesus answered, “I told you that I am He; so if you seek Me, let these go their way,” to fulfill the word which He spoke, “Of those whom You have given Me I lost not one.”

What do you think?  Was it right that Jesus's disciples left Him alone with His enemies?  From Jesus' point of view, it fulfilled prophecy and the reason for His coming into the world which is to be the Savior for those who call on His name.  But what about the disciples who pledged their loyalty to the Son of God?  This goes to show that they believed He was from Heaven, but still did not trust Him with their life - at least not yet.  But the day will come when Jesus will return to the Father and send the Helper and the disciples will indeed fight, and all lose their life less the disciple John the beloved.

Daily Prayer:  Lord I cannot say that I am better than the fearful disciples because I need the strength of the Good Shepherd as much as they do.  I do ask Your ongoing presence in my life and fight for me the great fight of living for You and dying to myself.  In Your holy name I pray Amen.