Christian Reflection and Prayer

By Rev. Wayne Palmer

Lenten Devotion

(Jesus said) "Have you come out as against a robber,
with swords and clubs? When I was with you day after
day in the temple, you did not lay hands on Me. But this
is your hour, and the power of darkness" (Luke 22:52b-53).

Read Luke 22:52-53.

Jesus now turns to the Jewish leaders. He protests the
way they are going about arresting Him. Like Judas a
moment ago, He wants them to realize the true nature of
their deeds. They think they are serving God, but in reality
they are serving the prince of darkness.

First, He points out the large armed guard they assembled.
Jesus is neither a lawbreaker, nor a violent man. He has
never preached armed rebellion or insurrection. He has only
preached repentance and the coming of the kingdom of
heaven. His deeds have all been good and kind, benefiting
the sick, the hurting, and the dying.

He then reminds them of all the times He preached and
taught before them in the temple courts. If they really had
grounds to lay their hands on Him, they should have done it
then. But Jesus had given them no cause to arrest Him-and
the fact they came out at night is proof of that.

Like cowards they emerge under cover of darkness when the
crowds are far away. This late hour of the night is their hour-
when the power of darkness reigns.

This may be the hour when they seem to have the upper hand,
but Jesus implies another hour is coming-an hour when God's
truth will be manifest, when Jesus will burst through the gates
of death at the resurrection.

THE PRAYER:

Lord Jesus, You exposed the evil intentions of Your enemies
in order to bring them to repentance and faith. Turn me from
my evil ways that I may live to Your glory. Amen.

(Lutheran Hour Ministries)