John 18:1-3

“When Jesus had spoken these words, He went forth with His disciples over the ravine of the Kidron, where there was a garden, into which He Himself entered, and 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.”

 

Jesus had known all along that the time of His betrayal was approaching. After all, that’s what He had been comforting the disciples about and praying about. Jesus’ last words – His last teachings – to His disciples before His death were these words of comfort and of petition to God for the disciples’ benefit. When this time of teaching and petition was completed, Jesus went to the garden where He would be betrayed.

 

Of course, Judas knew about the garden. And Jesus knew that Judas knew about the garden. It is not as though Jesus knew that Judas would betray Him and was, therefore, trying to hide. No, Jesus went boldly to the very place where He knew Judas would betray Him. And Judas came with the Romans and with the Jews. He came at night with lanterns, torches, and weapons. Jesus was not only aware that He would be betrayed by Judas, but Jesus walked knowingly and willingly into the betrayal – knowing that through it Jesus would be glorified, and would glorify the Father.

 

Father, thank You for sending such an obedient Son to do Your will. One who did not shy away from what He knew was coming, but who loved You and glorified You. May I live like Jesus lived, to love You and glorify You and obey You wholeheartedly.