Countdown to the Cross... (Tuesday, April 7)

For today, we'll spend some time reflecting on Luke 22:47-53.

Earlier in Luke 22, we understand that somehow, "Satan entered Judas" (22:3).

No kidding.

Welcome to history's most famous and most regrettable betrayal.

Jesus' intense time of prayer and discussion with his friends turns into a mob scene. A crowd of self-righteous religious policemen have been waiting anxiously for this moment.

And Judas tops it off with a kiss. Yes, Judas, who has been a "disciple" or "follower" of Jesus for several years now. Yes, Judas, who was entrusted to carry the money for the whole band of followers. Yes, Judas, the one Jesus kept in the club, kept on the team - knowing full well that one day someone who claimed to be his friend and whose "hand is with mine" (Luke 22:21-22) would now betray him with a kiss.

His real friends pull out their swords, ready to defend Jesus at all costs. One of them, full of rage, chops off someone's right ear. Sometimes, I think I'd be that guy, hoping to fight alongside Jesus whatever the cost.

Jesus turns himself over in a demonstration of peace. He tells this club-carrying mob that "this is your hour - when darkness reigns" (22:53).

Seems like darkness still reigns here in 2009. Still at war. Still fearing the worst about the economy. Still see violence on the news every night. Still see greed, lust, envy, and bitterness at every turn.

Jesus makes a statement to his enemies here... "this is your hour..."

Not, "this is how it ends."
Not, "Okay, guys, I give up."
Not, "Go easy on me, fellas, because my Father is going to crush you next week."

Instead... "This is your hour."

Sixty minutes. A temporary time-period. A season, at best. An opportunity. Awareness of a moment that has finally arrived. The time has come, evil ones...

"This is your hour."

Darkness senses a victory. Jesus is betrayed by a brother, approached by a mob, rejected by the keepers of his temple...

Here is the self-proclaimed Messiah, going peacefully into the hands of the enemy.

Behold, the Lamb of God, giving up His personal rights to enter into this chapter of the Father's will.

"This is your hour."