Lent, Day 37: IN OUR DARKEST NIGHT, GOD IS AT WORK

Scripture:   John 13:21-32 

Focus on the Word

As the day of His death approached, Jesus came to be "troubled in spirit" (John 13:21, NASB).  He knew His hours were numbered and that one of His disciples would betray Him.  Fully human, the weight of it all began to rest on His heart.  One He trusted would turn Him over to the powers that were seeking His demise.  With a heart of compassion, full understanding, and release, Jesus told Judas to go and do whatever it was he had to do.  Judas left the room.  The scene was set.  Friday's coming, suffering and death were soon to be upon "the Son of Man" (John 13:31, NASB), and the moment toward which Jesus had been moving throughout His life was near.

Everything was in the hands of the Father now.  History was rapidly moving toward a horrible day that would come to be called "Good Friday."  A day of suffering and death and betrayal would be anointed by the Maker of heaven and earth.  When it looked like everything was moving out of control Jesus revealed the Father was at work in all His glory.  Redemption was underway.

In Lent we remember the true story of Holy Week and realize that as long away as it is now, it is our story.  We are caught up in every moment, every event, every betrayal, every tear, and every nail that was driven into innocent skin.  Holy week is not a time of celebration. It is a time for self-examination, soul searching, even repentance, and self-denial.  Hear the words of this late nineteenth century hymn

Along that sacred way where Thou art leading,

Which Thou didst take to save our souls from loss,

Let us go also, till we see Thee pleading

In all prevailing prayer upon Thy cross.

William H. Draper, 1898

Today’s Prayer

Almighty God,

Your name is glorified

even in the anguish of your Son's death.

Grant us the courage

to receive your anointed servant

who embodies a wisdom and love

that is foolishness to the world.

Empower us in witness

so that all the world may recognize

in the scandal of the cross the mystery of reconciliation. Amen.

(Revised Common Lectionary)