October 29 - Mark 14:1-2, Matthew 26:1-5, Luke 22:1-2, Mark 14:10-11, Matthew 26:14-16, Luke 22:3-6, Mark 14:12-16, Matthew 26:17-19, Luke 22:7-13, John 13:1-17, Mark 14:17-26, Matthew 26:20-30, Luke 22:14-30, John 13:18-30

Good morning everyone, 

As we begin the story today, the time for Passover and the Festival of the Unleavened Bread was just days away. We’re told, the leading priests and the teachers of religious law were still looking for an opportunity to secretly capture Jesus and kill him when who comes knocking on their door? None other than Judas Iscariot, inquiring, “How much will you pay me to betray Jesus to you?”

What was he thinking? From the get-go he had misunderstood Jesus’ mission, perhaps expecting Him to make some political moves. Whenever Jesus would talk about His dying, confusion followed by anger and disappointment would be Judas’ response. We’re told in John 17:12 that Judas Iscariot was the only one of the disciples not saved allowing us to see that on the outside people can look the part and say all the right things, but too often are not prepared to make that full commitment to Christ. Some even go so far as to say the “sinners prayer” but are not willing to give of all of themselves to the Lord, always having someone or many things more important, while all the while faking it to fellow Christians. It begs the question, did they mean it in their heart when they asked Jesus in?  Sadly, as we see in Judas Iscariot, the hypocrisy of one’s behavior will ultimately serve to be a foot hold for Satan to do his wicked work. For a mere thirty pieces of silver Judas Iscariot would betray Jesus. A choice he will live to regret.

Jesus, of course, knew of the choice Judas had made and of the chain of events that would lead to his death. It was inevitable. But before that day came He first wanted to share his last meal with his friends. He wanted to give them some final instructions, though they still would not understand all of what he was saying. Later the disciples would have some, “Ahh haa,” moments that would make them smile and fire up their determination. 

Jesus also took the opportunity to model a servant’s attitude for the disciples, and for us too, by wrapping a towel around his waist and as the lowliest of slaves, washed and dried their feet. Friends, if God in the flesh was willing to serve shouldn’t we be willing to also serve in any way that glorifies Him? 

Isaiah 43:7 says, "everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.” According to the Bible, our purpose, the sole reason we are here, is for God's glory.  That is to say, our purpose is to praise God, worship Him, to proclaim his greatness, and to accomplish his will.  Our number one priority in life should be, in all that we do, bring glory to God for there is no one greater, no one who is worthy of more trust, adoration, or worship. Amen?

Have a great day and to God be the glory.

God bless you all …..