John 18:1-11

So, we come to the final stages of Jesus ministry and the fulfilment of his purpose to bring salvation to humanity. Reconciliation between God and humanity, forgiveness of sins and the defeat of Satan are his purpose, for which he will pay what seems like the ultimate price.

The olive grove mentioned here is given the name Gethsemane in other gospels, and it seems to have been a popular place Jesus and his disciples to meet. As the arrest party arrives Jesus takes the initiative and steps forward, he knows what is coming and is not a victim of his circumstances.

As Jesus identifies himself with the words ‘I am he’ (ego eimi) the party falls back to the ground. They must have had some understanding of his power and authority as he identifies himself with the divine name for God. His authority is evident even in this moment as he tells the party to let his followers go. Luke 22:35-38 tells us that the disciples had two swords, one clearly being carried by Simon Peter who wants to defend Jesus. However, Jesus knows he must allow this arrest to take place. Luke tells us that Jesus heals the servant’s ear

It is pitch black, in an olive grove, only flaming torches for light, strange shadows, a band of armed men. It must have been frightening and chaotic yet, in the midst of the storm, Jesus remains calm and in control. In John 13 we were told that Jesus knows who he is, the authority he has and understands his relationship to the Father: all of this now keeps him steady as he faces these final hours.

Response: Choose a word, phrase, idea or action that strikes you as significant at this moment in your life and spend a few minutes reflecting on it.