Then Jesus, knowing all that was to happen to him, came forward and asked them, “Whom are you looking for?” They answered, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus replied, “I am he.” Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them. When Jesus said to them, “I am he,” they stepped back and fell to the ground. ... Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it, struck the high priest’s slave, and cut off his right ear. The slave’s name was Malchus. Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword back into its sheath. Am I not to drink the cup that the Father has given me?” -John 18:4-6,10-11 NRSV
Such an interesting contrast of power in this passage. Peter, and all present, watch as soldiers twice recoil and fall as Jesus speaks the words "I am". It is a reminder that of the words that Jesus spoke about having angels at his disposal. Yet Peter, a fisherman, felt a need to swing a sword. He was ready to go to war. His messianic vision was earthly.
The words of Jesus challenge me. I wince when he speaks of drinking the cup of suffering. Sometimes the things we do for others come at great cost. In truth, I want to swing a proverbial sword of resistance. Yet love compels me to drink of the cup. To endure the suffering when I want to strike out. To patiently trust that God is at work in my pain.
I hurt and want your power Lord. Help me to remember that your power is made complete in my weakness.
... this devotion is part of an ongoing series on the Gospel of John.
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