“As Jesus was still speaking, Judas [Iscariot], one of the twelve [disciples], came up accompanied by a large crowd with swords and clubs, [who came as representatives] from the chief priests and elders of the people. Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “Whomever I kiss, He is the one; seize Him.” Immediately Judas went to Jesus and said, “Greetings (rejoice), Rabbi!” And he kissed Him [in a deliberate act of betrayal]. Jesus said to Judas, “Friend, do what you came for.” Then they came and seized Jesus and arrested Him. And one of those who were with Jesus reached out and drew his sword, and struck [Malchus] the slave of the high priest and cut off his ear. Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back in its place; for all those who habitually draw the sword will die by the sword. Do you think that I cannot appeal to My Father, and He will immediately provide Me with more than twelve legions (more than 80,000) of angels?” (Matthew 26:47-53 AMP)
This week I spent a few days in bed, all day for the most part for three days, with the exception of getting up to do the Lord’s work. My loved ones were ready to fill in for me in many ways, but I was challenged to remain unbroken in regard to my faithfulness. Meditations would go out daily, Bible Study Classes, five in all, would be taught as scheduled, and I would be in contact with the saints who needed me. I was not hardheaded – just trying to be faithful. I was not trying to be a martyr – just trying to be faithful. I did not have any lack of confidence in others, thinking like only I could do it right– I was just trying to be faithful.
However, this is what was on my mind that served as my motivation and moved me to do the work the Lord sent me to do. I was thinking about Christ, the faithful and truthful witness. That prompted me to be faithful. that is what always pushes me and persuades me to be faithful. I thought about how He died on Calvary’s cross for us and how His faithfulness is seen in the fact He did not call a legion of angels to come to His rescue, but He was faithful; fulfilled His work until it was finished!
Keep His ultimate sacrifice in mind today and while you are thinking about the Lord, don’t forget tomorrow is The Lord’s Day where we worship Him! Enjoy your Saturday, but prepare your heart to be filled on Sunday. Be blessed!
“We must carry out the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming, when no one can work.” (John 9:4 NASB)
Still committed to the climb,
Mark L. King