Judas enters the scene as the betrayer among the authorities seeking to arrest Jesus. Here is part of the narrative:
"When those who were around him saw what was coming, they asked, 'Lord, should we strike with the sword?' Then one of them struck the slave of the high priest and cut off his right ear.' But Jesus said, 'No more of this!' And he touched his ear and healed him." Luke 22:49-50
There was the desire to use force to prevent Jesus from being arrested; yet Jesus forbade them. It would make us wonder today about using violence or force in our world today? What about leaders in movements who have sought out non-violence as a way of achieving their goals?
Jesus here forbids any act of resistance as he knows what is happening is in God's plan for his life. Think also about what it means and feels like to be betrayed.
You may want to read the entire section which is Luke 22:47 - 53 in preparation for worship this Sunday. May God's blessing be upon your reflection and worship.
Pastor Marty