Matthew 26:1-5
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. As you breathe in, say the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
Today’s passage comes on the heels of Jesus’ prophetic discourse about the end of time as we know it and what we should be doing as we wait. Read Matthew 26:1-5 letting the solemn nature of the passage sink in.
In just a few days, Jesus will be killed, and his blood will be poured out to cover the rebellion of all people for all time. His sacrificial death and subsequent resurrection will open the way for people to be set free from the deadly consequences of sin so they can experience abundant life through a restored relationship with God. From that time forward, anyone who claims the covering of Jesus by surrendering control of their life to him will be given a seat at the table and will be free to feast of the riches of God’s Kingdom.
Read these words from Exodus 12 regarding the first Passover:
“These are your instructions for eating this meal: Be fully dressed, wear your sandals, and carry your walking stick in your hand. Eat the meal with urgency, for this is the Lord’s Passover. On that night I will pass through the land of Egypt and strike down every firstborn son and firstborn male animal in the land of Egypt. I will execute judgment against all the gods of Egypt, for I am the Lord! But the blood on your doorposts will serve as a sign, marking the houses where you are staying. When I see the blood, I will pass over you. This plague of death will not touch you when I strike the land of Egypt.” – Exodus 12:11-13
Take a few moments to consider the ways Jesus has freed you from slavery. What chains that kept you bound up has Jesus broken? How are you living into the freedom Jesus has proclaimed over you?
Share your thoughts and feelings about this with Jesus.
Read Matthew 26:1-5 again noting anything that stands out in this reading.
The ultimate tragedy is unfolding in this passage as the most influential leaders of God’s chosen people formulate plans to destroy God’s gift to them. The fringes of society welcomed Jesus and feasted on his healing power and abundant forgiveness, but the religious leaders’ souls continue shriveling up from spiritual hunger and they don’t even know it. Their hatred for Jesus has become a venomous force that will soon consume their own souls.
Contemplate these words from John’s Gospel:
“He came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him. He came to his own people, and even they rejected him. But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.” John 1:10-12
For the last minutes of this time of meditation, get still and listen for the voice of Jesus.
What might Jesus want you to notice or do as the result of your time with him today?
What will you do about that?
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The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide ebook can help you learn how to recognize God's voice, how to read and understand the Bible, how to develop deep spiritual friendships, and how to become the person you were meant to be. Use it alone, with a friend or in a small group.
