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Matthew 26

As the Jewish leaders plot to kill Jesus, events take place in Jerusalem between Christ and His followers. A woman anoints His head with oil for burial, though the apostles do not understand why. Judas responds by heading off to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. Jesus then gathers with the twelve at the Passover and institutes His memorial supper. He points out that He knows the betrayer. Afterward, Jesus goes to the garden to spend time in prayer and is then arrested and put before a corrupt Jewish council. At the same time, the chapter tracks Peter’s journey and faith crisis from dismissing that he would ever reject Jesus, to sleeping in the garden while Jesus prayed, to ultimately denying Jesus openly after His arrest.

It is valuable to focus on the three main characters. First, there is Jesus. He is preparing His disciples for what is coming. He is leaning upon God in prayer as death approaches. He is faithful in times of trial. Jesus is the great example for us all. Second, there is Judas. Beneath his weak faith are greed and self-focus. He shows these by trading Jesus for money, and eventually by betraying Christ to His face. He is the man we must not be. Thirdly, there is Peter. He battles pride and ignorance. But his heart is good, and he is crushed by his failure. Soon Christ will help him rebuild stronger than ever. He exemplifies hope, even after failure.  

Loving Father, thank You for submitting Your Son to death to give us restoration and life. It is difficult to see those closest to Jesus fail Him in unbelief. But it is powerful to witness Him give His life in hopes that His sacrifice and resurrection would fortify faith and change lives. Father may that be our story. We fail. And we call upon Your mercy. Help us to be like Peter in our failings: crushed and seeking Christ’s help to grow stronger. We will be humble and attentive this week to glorify Him for all He endured for us.  

Thought Questions: 

-       Jesus said the woman who anointed Him would always be remembered. Why? And how can you be more like her in your relationship with Jesus?

-       If greed was seeded in Judas’s heart, someone who traveled with Jesus, how vital is it to check your heart and address worldliness?

-       Peter was overconfident and underprepared. He remedied this after Christ was raised. How can you learn from him and be stronger in Christ?