PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Matthew 26:1-5
What do you sense Jesus saying to you in this passage?
“They schemed to arrest Jesus secretly and kill him.” (Matthew 26:3)
In these verses we have a sense of what is happening from two perspectives.
Jesus has a sense of destiny, what He must do to maximize God’s purpose.
The religious leaders have a selfish goal, to protect their own interests.
Jesus is thinking about God’s agenda, the religious leaders about their own agenda.
Whose agenda do I have in mind?
Am I doing what I do each day to preserve and protect myself?
Or am I focused on doing what advances God’s purpose?
Jesus not only speaks about His own cross, but urges us to take up our cross too.
The cross symbolizes putting aside self interest, comfort and ambition for others.
These reflections seem very relevant to me right now.
The Lord is challenging me on my agenda, on how I respond to issues and challenges.
Am I putting myself aside for God and others, am I eager to bless and help others?
Or will I be like the religious leaders, avoiding risk and pursuing my advantage?
Jesus took up His cross for me, will I take up my cross for Him?
Lord Jesus, I want to be like You, but if I’m honest I often behave more like the religious leaders, doing whatever I must to keep my life safe, comfortable.