April 2 | John 18:1-14

Judy Webb
Apr 2
2 min read

DAILY READING

John 18:1-14

REFLECTION

Jesus Is the Answer

By Judy Webb

” When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was a garden, and he and his disciples went into it.” (John 18:1)

Imagine for a moment, you were in this garden spending a few quiet moments before going home. The fragrant flowers seem to call you to sit, take a breath, enjoy a quiet time and prepare for the evening ahead. The peace found in this garden has been attractive to you, as some days are hard and tiring. This garden offers a sense of calmness which life doesn’t. Chaos at home and at work can be too much but knowing this special place of respite awaits gives you something to look forward to. It is a shelter of sorts for your troubled spirit. Until one day…

“…So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons.

Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?”

“Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied.

“I am he, “Jesus said. When Jesus said, “I am he, “they drew back and fell to the ground. (John 18:2-6)

The peaceful refuge you had been seeking suddenly turned into something unexpected. The silence you craved just broke into shouts and commands. You witness an entire detachment of soldiers (500) collapse at the words of Jesus, “I am He.” Your head is spinning, as you recognize this man as the one so many have been talking about. What is going on? Should you do something, or stay silent? What caused these soldiers to fall down, to bow at His feet.

“Then the detachment of soldiers with its commander and the Jewish officials arrested Jesus.” (John 18:12)

Just like that, the garden, your peaceful sanctuary changed. You were afraid, so you hid until they all left. Then, without a word, you made your way home. Processing what just happened and waiting for answers.

PRAYER

Dear Lord,

This had to have been an awful day for Jesus' followers. Jesus knew what was waiting for Him and what He had to do next. We too, know what waits for us if we don't acknowledge Jesus and His saving grace. Perhaps as we process what happened that day so many years ago, we can share with someone just what really happened, and why. No need to wait for answers. Jesus IS the answer.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JUDY WEBB

I have been a member of UALC for 26 years and have been writing devotions for this site for about 17 of them. Writing is my passion. As retired staff I still love everything about UALC and its members including my small group.