The difficult days

 

The journey with Jesus has reached a situation of conflict. Reading Mark chapter 14 presents the devotion of an unnamed woman. Then the treachery of Judas the betrayer. Then the fickle boast of loyal Peter. And then the sleeping apostles!

But I would like you to watch and listen to Jesus. He knows the Jewish leaders are envious of His popularity- even to the point of planning to kill Him. Instead of leaving the city to save His life, He leads His close followers into a deeper understanding of God about to do something special in the midst of seeming disaster.

Chapter 14:8 – He accepted the anointing of perfume for His burial.

14:24 – He announces that His blood being shed (being killed) was for the purpose of sealing a new covenant between God and people.

14:27 – He interprets the Old Testament scripture as predicting His death as a Shepherd.

14:28 He makes an appointment to meet the apostles after the resurrection.

14:36  In prayer in the garden of Gethsemane, He anticipates the impending suffering as dreadful, yet a deliberate cup of Divine purpose (read slowly through His prayers).

14:49 – Again He recognises, even in the actions of cruel men, the prophecy of scripture being fulfilled.

14:62 – Finally He begins to speak in the Jewish high court. His response to the challenge given is so important:

"I am (Messiah, Son of the blessed God), and you will see the Son of Man sitting at God's right hand in the place of power and coming back on the clouds of heaven."

This statement was so important, the high priest and his councillors called it blasphemy, worthy of death.

We also must react to this high claim!

   Shall we agree with the court?

   Or shall we with Thomas say "My Lord and my God"

The destiny of Jesus Christ is secure – after the death of the cross is the throne in heaven.

The destiny of you and me is totally determined by our reaction to HIM.

"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved."  (Acts 16)