The kindness of Jesus is overwhelming. He never allowed the disdain and cynicism of others affect His heart towards them; and He did not try to retaliate or fight against those who betrayed, hated and wanted to kill Him.
1 Corinthians 11:23 says:
“on the night when He was betrayed took bread,
and when He had given thanks, He broke it, and said,
‘This is My body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of Me.’”
Amidst betrayal, contention, deep hurt and agony over the pain that was before Him —Jesus demonstrated love. On the nigh He was betrayed He served by washing His disciples’ feet and giving them communion, a symbol of how He would sacrifice His life on the cross for them. He gave thanks and He said “this is My body which is for you.” He was not thinking of Himself, He was serving others.
Throughout His ministry Jesus’ disciples were confused when He would say: ‘My hour has not yet come’ or ‘the Son of Man will be betrayed but on the third day will rise again.’ But Jesus knew His disciples would look back at this night, remember Jesus’ example, His death and His resurrection and it would finally make sense. The disciples would finally understand that the purpose of Jesus’ life and ministry was to bring salvation, peace, and reconciliation to lost and hurting people who were in need of a Savior.
And all Jesus asks is that they remember Him.
Simply remember. And He asks me to do the same. It is easy for me to forget and become busy in my daily routine, waste time scrolling through social media, so consumed with the noise that I become restless and can no longer rest in the stillness… and when I find myself discouraged, backsliding, or doubtful it means that I have forgotten Him: who He is and all that He means to me. I need to remember: His kindness, faithfulness and compassion; all the ways He’s provided and cared for Me. I must be watchful and careful to not be distracted but instead to fix my eyes on Him
On a night that was confusing and chaotic to His disciples and onlookers, when it seemed as though evil had won and injustice had the final word, God’s purpose was being fulfilled and Jesus had His eyes on His Father, submitting to His will. When you cannot make sense of all that is going on around you—look to Jesus, remember Him, and rest knowing that He is in control and His purpose is being accomplished even when all else seems contrary.
Oh what a Savior! Isn’t He wonderful!?
– “Come to the Altar” by Elevation Worship
Help me to love with open arms like You do
A love that erases all the lines and sees the truth
Oh that when they look in my eyes they would see You…
You’re wonderful and such a good Father
– “For the One” by Bethel