“It’s a weapon found only in the hands of one you love.

Your enemy has no such tool, for only a friend can betray.

Betrayal is mutiny.

It is a violation of trust. An inside job.”

Max Lucado, THE FINAL WEEK OF JESUS

The Ones Who Left

After Jesus’ arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane, he suffered beatings, secret trials, crucifixion, and death after hanging on a cross for six hours; most of his disciples, vacant from the horrific scene.
After the betrayal and capture of their leader, the followers bolted. Peter (and another unnamed disciple) did follow Jesus, only to deny His Lord three times and run away.
Jesus, the crucified. Jesus the betrayed.
If we rewind the story, we read that The Messiah taught His disciples what was to come several times as His ministry on earth closed in. He predicted His death and resurrection (see Mark 9:32). We also read in Mark that the followers did not comprehend His meaning.

“But they did not understand the saying and were afraid to ask him.”

Mark 9:32 ESV

What a notion – the idea that Jesus would die and then come back to life! I relate to the disciples’ reaction or lack thereof. How does one grasp the idea of death and resurrection?

The hope of this Hebrew nation was that a Savior would come and rescue them from the evil clutch of Rome. These men believed Jesus Christ was The One. Instead, He dangled to His death, seeming to desert his beloved supporters.

They were left with fear for their safety, fear of their future, and swimming in grief. I imagine bitterness and anger surged inside their inconsolable hearts. I do not condemn them. I empathize with their plight. Continue Reading