Day 40 - The Ascension of Jesus

Luke 24 v 50-53 The Ascension of Jesus    

(Use the link above to get to the passage)

Tomorrow is Easter day, and we celebrate again the joy of our risen Lord. As he left for Heaven, Jesus raised his hands and blessed them. Receive that blessing today. Wake up tomorrow morning and marvel once again in the amazing news that he loves us. In fact loves us so much that his death and resurrection resound through history, announcing his desire to know us as friends and brothers.

It has been a joy to walk through the passion of Jesus with you over the last 40 days. My prayer is that you will walk strong. Believe strong and serve your Saviour. Thank you for being part of these last weeks. Until next year. God Bless.

Most merciful God, 

who by the death and resurrection 

of your Son Jesus Christ delivered 

and saved the world: 

grant that by faith in him who 

suffered on the cross we may 

triumph in the power of his victory; 

through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, 

who is alive and reigns with you, 

in the unity of the Holy Spirit, 

one God, now and for ever.

Amen.

(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 39 - The Great Commision

Matthew 28 v 16-20 The Great Commision    

(Use the link above to get to the passage)

Jesus has been given all authority in heaven and on earth. He who had been there at the creation of the world had finished his ministry on Earth and was now ready to return to Heaven. Before he goes he tells his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations. His prophetic words have worked themselves out over the centuries. The Bible continues to be printed and distributed around the world, reaching new peoples and lands all the time. Men and women dedicated their lives to telling others about him. We all play a part of teaching others (and ourselves!) to obey everything he commanded us.

Pray today for those who dedicate their lives to translating the Bible into new languages, and then risk their lives to see the word of God reaching places where it is still hidden.

Most merciful God, 

who by the death and resurrection 

of your Son Jesus Christ delivered 

and saved the world: 

grant that by faith in him who 

suffered on the cross we may 

triumph in the power of his victory; 

through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, 

who is alive and reigns with you, 

in the unity of the Holy Spirit, 

one God, now and for ever.

Amen.

(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 38 - Jesus Appears to his Disciples

Luke 24 v 36-49 Jesus Appears to his Disciples    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

And so it begins - Jesus launches his church. He knows they will start to spread the word of repentance and forgiveness of sins, that they will write down and record what happened. That we will one day read, understand and believe that he is the Messiah, just as they did. History was on the brink of a new era. God had revealed himself in a new way, and was about to send his Spirit in power. They were the privileged few who had got to meet Jesus, the Son of God, Messiah, Saviour of the world. And they saw him in his risen Glory.

We too are privileged to know and love Jesus. Think back over your Christian journey, those who have prayed for you over the years. Remember when you first met Jesus and who introduced you to him. Thank God for them, and be ready to share him with others today.

Most merciful God, 
who by the death and resurrection 
of your Son Jesus Christ delivered 
and saved the world: 
grant that by faith in him who 
suffered on the cross we may 
triumph in the power of his victory; 
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, 
who is alive and reigns with you, 
in the unity of the Holy Spirit, 
one God, now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 37 - The Road to Emmaus

Luke 24 v 13-35 The Road to Emmaus    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

There are a few things to notice today. 

Firstly, the two disciples referred to Jesus as a prophet, and not the Messiah. They had thought he was going to be the one to redeem Israel, but just not in the way that Jesus did. In some ways they were disappointed, he hadn’t fulfilled their expectations of the Messiah. The truth is - he had, and in a way that was way more astonishing and amazing than their version of what they thought should have happened.

Secondly, did you notice their comment after they had realised it was Jesus? “Were not our hearts burning within us...?” Already the Holy Spirit was becoming active in a new and exciting way, showing them the truth of what had happened that weekend.

Take time today to bring to Jesus any ways that you feel disappointed. Recognise that he walks along with you, with his plan that he is working out being so much more amazing than we might realise at the moment. And recognise his Spirit in our hearts, burning with his prompting and revelation.



Most merciful God, 
who by the death and resurrection
of your Son Jesus Christ 
delivered and saved the world: 
grant that by faith in him who 
suffered on the cross we may triumph 
in the power of his victory; 
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, 
who is alive and reigns with you, 
in the unity of the Holy Spirit, 
one God, now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 36 - The Guards' Report

Matthew 28 v 11-15 The Guards' Report    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

Today we see how the guards are quick to report what has happened, and, equally quickly, the chief priests act to contradict the story. Similarly to Judas, the guards are bribed with money, also acting in self-interest: any human explanation of how Jesus got out of the tomb will only bring blame on them so they might as well get paid for this version of events.

Are there times when it is easier to adopt and tell a human side to an event, rather than offer the God-inspired truth? Do we hide the prayer-led healing under a story of a good doctor, or attribute something to 'luck' rather than act as a witness to God working in our lives?

Look for opportunities today to speak the truth for God, however small the situation.

God our Father,
in your love and goodness 
you have taught us to come 
close to you in penitence
with prayer, fasting and generosity; 
accept our Lenten discipline, 
and when we fall by our weakness, 
raise us up by your unfailing mercy; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 35 - The Empty Tomb

John 20 v 1-10 The Empty Tomb    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

Here we read again of Jesus rising from the dead, this time from John's perspective. In this Gospel, Mary Magdalene runs straight to tell Peter and John about what she has seen. Her initial response is that someone must have moved Jesus' body. She can only imagine that a human act could have caused this to happen.

This is often true for people today: something out of the ordinary happens, but, instead of looking for a Godly intervention, they assume there must be a human one. It is only when John and Peter arrive that Jesus' followers "saw and believed."

What happenings are we quick to put down to coincidence or to try and explain away when we should be celebrating them as an act of God? Take time today to reflect on God's amazing power in your life. 

Lord Jesus, 
you were dead but now you are alive: 
transform the torments of this world’s sin
that we may see your radiant glory. 
You were raised from death to life: 
may the power of your resurrection live in us, 
that we may be channels of your true life beyond measure. 
To you, Jesus, 
who have broken free from the bonds of death, 
be honour and glory with 
the Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 34 - Jesus has Risen

Mark 16 v 1-8 Jesus has Risen    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

Today we see three of Jesus’ closest female followers going to his tomb to perform a very intimate and human service. Their main concern is equally practical: how, as three women, will they be able to get into the tomb? However, when they reach it, they find that, not only has the stone been rolled away, but there is also a young man sitting inside. It is hard to imagine their shock; their hearts would have been grieving and they would have been full of emotional upheaval, and now the body of a man they knew and loved has disappeared.

The angel’s response to this is, “Do not be alarmed.”

Take a moment to give to God something that is worrying you today and ask for His hand to be on you, relieving you of your anxiety.

Lord Jesus, 
you were dead but now you are alive: 
transform the torments of this world’s sin
that we may see your radiant glory. 
You were raised from death to life: 
may the power of your resurrection live in us, 
that we may be channels of your true life beyond measure. 
To you, Jesus, 
who have broken free from the bonds of death, 
be honour and glory with 
the Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 33 - The Guard at the tomb

Matthew 27 v 62-66 The Guard at the tomb     
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

The thing about this passage is it makes for convincing evidence to back up the resurrection of Jesus. The guard on the tomb meant it would have been impossible for the disciples to steal the body. It is also interesting to see that the chief priests and Pharisees had remembered Jesus' teaching about how he would rise again, and were worried it might be true!

Remember today the fact that Jesus said he would beat death, and rejoice that the fact he did means we can have relationship with him now. 


Lord Jesus, you were dead but now you are alive: transform the torments of this world’s sinthat we may see your radiant glory. You were raised from death to life: may the power of your resurrection live in us, that we may be channels of your true life beyond measure. To you, Jesus, who have broken free from the bonds of death, be honour and glory with the Father and the Holy Spirit, now and for ever.Amen.(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 32 - The Burial of Jesus

Luke 23 v 50-56 The Burial of Jesus    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

Joseph of Arimathea also features in Luke’s account of the burial of Jesus. Luke emphasises that Joseph had not agreed with the Sanhedrin’s decision to turn Jesus over to Pilate; he had in fact taken a stand for Jesus before in a very public manner before the Council. Luke also underlines that Joseph was “waiting for the kingdom of God.” Although his peers and colleagues fail to see Jesus for who he really is, Joseph’s eyes are open and expectant and he is therefore able to recognise Jesus as the son of God.

We may already be followers of Jesus who do see Jesus for who he is, but are our eyes open fully to him and his great wonders? As you start the day, pray for having your eyes open and your heart filled with expectation of what Jesus can do in us and through us.

Lord Jesus, 
Lord of life, you became as nothing for us:
be with those who feel worthless and 
as nothing in the world’s eyes. 
You were laid in a cold, dark tomb and hidden from sight:
be with all who suffer and die in secret, 
hidden from the eyes of the world. 
To you, Jesus, your rigid body imprisoned in a tomb,
be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit,
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 31 - The Burial of Jesus

John 19 v 38-42 The Burial of Jesus    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

Today’s reading shows us two men who were followers of Jesus, but who couldn’t publicly admit to being so. Joseph of Arimathea was scared of the reaction of the Jewish leaders, but nevertheless came and collected Jesus’ body. Nicodemus was also a member of the Sanhedrin, so also had to hide his allegiance to Jesus. Similarly, he interacted with Jesus under cover of darkness, but again, at Jesus’ death, fulfilled a vital role.

We may be worried about admitting that we are Christians, or be nervous of associating ourselves with some of Jesus’ teachings to our colleagues at work or to our families. Pray today about where and how you can stand with Jesus openly at your side, rather than under cover of darkness.

Lord Jesus, 
Lord of life, you became as nothing for us:
be with those who feel worthless and 
as nothing in the world’s eyes. 
You were laid in a cold, dark tomb and hidden from sight:
be with all who suffer and die in secret, 
hidden from the eyes of the world. 
To you, Jesus, your rigid body imprisoned in a tomb,
be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit,
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 30 - The Death of Jesus

Mark 15 v 33 - 41 The Death of Jesus    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

We see here two further proofs that Jesus is who he said he was. The miracle of the temple curtain ripping in two signifies the way that Jesus is our bridge to God, opening the way to him in a way that had never been possible before. Whilst there is no other historical source to corroborate this event, it is highly unlikely that Mark was making it up: there were thousands of eye-witnesses to the events surrounding the crucifixion and Mark was writing 10-20 years after they occurred. If Mark was manufacturing a story, it would have been refuted.

The Centurion’s response is also interesting. A Roman, a non-Jew, a professional killer: all these titles mean he is one of the least likely people to be convinced of Jesus’ divinity unless he had seen it with his own eyes, making his words so compelling.

Take a moment today to ponder the evidence for Jesus death and resurrection, including the evidence in your own heart and life.

God our Father,
in your love and goodness 
you have taught us to come 
close to you in penitence
with prayer, fasting and generosity; 
accept our Lenten discipline, 
and when we fall by our weakness, 
raise us up by your unfailing mercy; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 29 - The Death of Jesus

John 19 v 28-37 The Death of Jesus    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

There is a simplicity yet profundity to Jesus' final three words. His suffering. His mission. His time on Earth. The rescue plan. The defeat of Satan. The arrival of the Kingdom of God. All were finished. John leaves us in no doubt that Jesus died, and also points out that his account can be trusted. He paves the way for the next part of the narrative - Jesus beating death and rising. Ancient prophecies were being fulfilled. The culmination of God's promise in Eden: "he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel". The direction of history was being changed.

Reflect today on his rescue plan, and your place within it. Pray again for those you know who are discovering their need for Jesus.

Lord Jesus, 
your mother and your dearest friend 
stayed with you to the bitter end, 
yet even while racked with pain you ministered to them: 
be with all broken families today and 
care for those who long for companionship. 
You cared for your loved ones even in your death-throes: 
give us a love for one another that is 
stronger even than the fear of death. 
To you, Jesus, loving in the face of death, 
be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 28 - The Crucifixion of Jesus

John 19 v 16-27 The Crucifixion of Jesus    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

In the midst of all that was raging in his mind, body and soul, Jesus still noticed his mother and loved and cared for her. Her well being even as he approached his last breath came to the forefront, and he asked John to care for her.

When the cares and troubles of the world push in around us, and our life situations rage, do we still notice the things that are on the minds and hearts of others? Acknowledging that life may be tough, even today make an effort to notice the cares and concerns of others. Take time to ask them how they are and mean it. Listen to their replies and pray for them openly or in private. And allow that to bring perspective to your own situation.

Lord Jesus, 
you bled in pain as the nails were driven into your flesh:
transform through the mystery of your love the pain of those who suffer. 
To you, Jesus, our crucified Lord, 
be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 27 - The Crucifixion of Jesus

Mark 15 v 21-32 The Crucifixion of Jesus    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

Notice today the link with the birth of Jesus. The gift from the wise men re-appearing almost as a fulfilment of the prophecy from his birth.  Simeon's words to Mary resonate too: "This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel... And a sword will pierce your own soul too". (Luke 2:34-35)

The irony of the insults hurled by the passers by is deep. In his own way Jesus was achieving exactly what they were saying. In his own serene, quiet, perfect way Jesus was saving the world. And the only one who knew it was Jesus himself.

Lord Jesus, 
even in your deepest agony 
you listened to the crucified thief:
hear us as we unburden to you our deepest fears. 
You spoke words of love in your hour of death: 
help us to speak words of life to a dying world. 
To you, Jesus, who offer hope to the hopeless,
be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 26 - The Soldiers Mock Jesus

Mark 15 v 16-20 The Soldiers Mock Jesus    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

They called the whole company of soldiers. There is nothing more to add really - just re-read the passage and let it sink in.

Then pray for those today who suffer at the hands of evil people because of their love of Jesus. Some are at the hands of government institutions, others at the hands of extremists. Nothing can stop the power of our prayers reaching them and encouraging them. Be faithful in it today.

Lord Jesus, 
you were condemned to death for political expediency: 
be with those who are imprisoned 
for the convenience of the powerful. 
You were the victim of unbridled injustice: 
change the minds and motivations of oppressors 
and exploiters to your way of peace. 
To you, Jesus, innocent though condemned,
 be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 25 - Jesus Sentenced to be Crucified

John 19 v 1-16 Jesus Sentenced to be Crucified    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

In a culture where violence is Hollywood-ified, and we may have become desensitised to the horror, the first four verses of today's passage can lose some of their impact. Add to the violence the insult of the crown of thorns and purple robe, and the sarcasm of "Hail, king of the Jews" and the whole picture is horrendous. He who came to reveal the Kingdom of God reduced at the hands of men to be handed over and rejected all the way to crucifixion. The supposedly godly leaders rejecting the Messiah and declaring they had no king but Caesar.

We know now why the betrayal and descent into evil had to happen. But don't lose sight of the fact that it did happen - and be shocked by it. Then turn to the face of your Saviour and say thank you.

Lord Jesus, 
you were condemned to death for political expediency: 
be with those who are imprisoned 
for the convenience of the powerful. 
You were the victim of unbridled injustice: 
change the minds and motivations of oppressors 
and exploiters to your way of peace. 
To you, Jesus, innocent though condemned,
 be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 24 - Jesus before Pilate and Herod

Luke 23 v 1-25 Jesus before Pilate and Herod    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

Would you have given in? Pilate had looked at the evidence and concluded that Jesus had done nothing to warrant death. In fact so had Herod, or he wouldn't have sent him back to Pilate. But what would you have done? Three times Pilate tried to release Jesus, but each time the response from the crowd was stronger. Possibly some of the crowd were the same people who had waved the branches in front of Jesus just a week before. In the end their shouts prevailed. Did Pilate cave in or did he have no choice? He let the public opinion sway his personal opinion.

Some of us find ourselves in situations where our Christian position on something might be at odds with the opinion of the majority. Bring to Jesus these areas of your life. And at the same time remember those who have to present decisions that are right in the face of opposition.

Lord Jesus, 
you were condemned to death for political expediency: 
be with those who are imprisoned 
for the convenience of the powerful. 
You were the victim of unbridled injustice: 
change the minds and motivations of oppressors 
and exploiters to your way of peace. 
To you, Jesus, innocent though condemned,
 be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 23 - Jesus before Pilate and Herod

Luke 22 v 66-71 Jesus before Pilate and Herod    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

Jesus being seated at the right hand of the Father is a beautiful picture. Jesus had the end game in sight, that man's relationship with God would be able to be restored. Jesus would return to his Glory in Heaven and be seated at the right hand of God, his rightful place. This would mean that his time on Earth was complete, that he had conquered death and returned sinless and perfect to reunite the trinity.

This statement lead the council to ask if he was the Son of God, which he answered with his characteristic, "You say that I am". We live with the hindsight of knowing what Jesus achieved. Reflect today on his sitting at the right hand of God, interceding for us and waiting for the day when all will be put right. Who do you say that he is?

Lord Jesus, 
you were condemned to death for political expediency: 
be with those who are imprisoned 
for the convenience of the powerful. 
You were the victim of unbridled injustice: 
change the minds and motivations of oppressors 
and exploiters to your way of peace. 
To you, Jesus, innocent though condemned,
 be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 22 - Jesus before Pilate

John 18 v 28-40 Jesus before Pilate    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

What is truth? On the night when the whole planet was about to be turned on its head, when the creator was about to be killed by the created, when it would appear that evil would triumph - Pilate asks “What is truth?”

In a lot of ways it feels like our whole world today screams the same question. Who do I believe? It is not popular to say 'you are right', but rather that it is fine with you as long as it doesn’t hurt anyone else.

But Jesus says “Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” Echoes from his teaching earlier in his ministry resonate: “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except by me.”

Reflect today on Jesus being the truth in your world, and pray for those who search for the truth.

Lord Jesus, 
you were condemned to death for political expediency: 
be with those who are imprisoned 
for the convenience of the powerful. 
You were the victim of unbridled injustice: 
change the minds and motivations of oppressors 
and exploiters to your way of peace. 
To you, Jesus, innocent though condemned,
 be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 21 - Jesus before Pilate

Mark 15 v 1-15 Jesus before Pilate    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

The road to the cross has started. The leaders have made their plans. Jesus has been accused of many things. A murderer is released. And Jesus makes no reply. The insight of Pilate is interesting to note: “knowing it was of of self-interest”. They had no desire for truth or what was best, or to seek the will of God. And the crowd are no different. The same people who shouted “Hosanna!” are now shouting “Crucify!”

Where would we have been if we had been there that night? Would our voices have been in the throng of the crowd shouting “Crucify!” along with the others? Or if they weren't, would they have been a voice of denial like Peter, or would we have simply been running away and watching from a distance? And through it all Jesus makes no reply.

Take time today to think about times when you have been in a crowd. That might be from a rally, demonstration, sport event or concert. Then imagine what it must have been like to hear them all chant crucify.

Lord Jesus, 
you were condemned to death for political expediency: 
be with those who are imprisoned 
for the convenience of the powerful. 
You were the victim of unbridled injustice: 
change the minds and motivations of oppressors 
and exploiters to your way of peace. 
To you, Jesus, innocent though condemned,
 be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 20 - Jesus Before the Sanhedrin

Mark 14 v 53-65 Jesus Before the Sanhedrin    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

'I will destroy this temple made with human hands and in three days will build another, not made with hands.'

The unexpected prophetic nature of the accusation made against Jesus is interesting to note. The kingdom that Jesus was in the process of building by his death and resurrection was not going to be made by human hands. The Holy Spirit would start to build in people's hearts, producing a temple from the hearts of men and women living for Jesus down through the centuries. We form part of that today, living with the knowledge that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One.

Remember today the journey that brought you to faith in Jesus, that moved you to the point where you are convinced that Jesus is the Messiah. Take time to share that with a Christian friend or colleague. And if you get the opportunity, share it too with someone who doesn't yet know Jesus.

Lord Jesus, 
you were the victim of religious bigotry: 
be with those who are persecuted by small-minded authority.
You faced the condemnation of fearful hearts:
deepen the understanding of those 
who shut themselves off from 
the experience and wisdom of others. 
To you, Jesus, unjustly judged victim, 
be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 19 - Jesus Before the Sanhedrin

Matthew 26 v57-68 Jesus Before the Sanhedrin    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

"He was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth." Isaiah 53v7

As the trial rages around him, Jesus remains silent. The cloud of evil and deceit builds, and he quietly responds to the questions. How often do we consider Jesus now in his rightful place at the right hand of the Mighty One? The response of the High Priest was to tear his clothes at blasphemy. Instead of recognising him as the Messiah, they continue to say, ever more strongly, that he is worthy of death. Their violent response increases - spitting and hitting. The cup of suffering starts to be filled.

Keep it simple today - as you drink your morning coffee, remember the cup that Jesus drank from.

Lord Jesus, 
you were the victim of religious bigotry: 
be with those who are persecuted by small-minded authority.
You faced the condemnation of fearful hearts:
deepen the understanding of those 
who shut themselves off from 
the experience and wisdom of others. 
To you, Jesus, unjustly judged victim, 
be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 18 - The High Priest Questions Jesus

John 18 v 19-24 The High Priest Questions Jesus    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

And so the trial of Jesus starts. Jesus explains calmly how he was open about his teaching and did nothing in secret. The response of the officials is telling - the emptiness of their accusations and the ultimate innocence of Jesus.

How do we react when people ask us about our faith and trust in Jesus? Are we ready with an answer, and willing to share what Jesus has done for us? It is interesting to analyse how our friends and colleagues respond to the name of Jesus. Be aware today of times when we can share the teaching of Jesus, and be an open disciple of our Lord.

God our Father,
in your love and goodness 
you have taught us to come 
close to you in penitence
with prayer, fasting and generosity; 
accept our Lenten discipline, 
and when we fall by our weakness, 
raise us up by your unfailing mercy; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 17 - Jesus Arrested

Luke 22 v 47-53 Jesus Arrested    

(Use the link above to get to the passage)

The cutting off and subsequent healing of the servant's ear provides us with an interesting contrast between man's understanding and God's out-working of his plan. Even though Peter has heard everything Jesus has been saying about what would happen to him, he still reacts in a human way. Peter has still not understood that Jesus must overcome the world by being a servant who dies, rather than beating the occupation and rescuing by force. Jesus' instruction of "no more of this" reverberates through history - waiting for the time when he will return. At that time "there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain (Revelation 21:4).

Think today of situations where darkness reigns. Maybe watch the news, intentionally praying for each news story as it finishes, or remember friends and family who find themselves in darkness.

Lord Jesus, 
you were betrayed by the kiss of a friend: 
be with those who are betrayed 
and slandered and falsely accused. 
You knew the experience of having 
your love thrown back in your face for mere silver:
be with families which are torn apart 
by mistrust or temptation. 
To you, Jesus, who offered your face to your betrayer,
be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 16 - Jesus Arrested

John 18 v 1-14 Jesus Arrested    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

"They came carrying torches, lanterns and weapons." How they had misunderstood all that Jesus had presented to them over the previous three years! And how unexpected would they have found their own reaction to Jesus when he said, "I am he"? Is there a link back to the Old Testament when God spoke to Moses and said, "I am who I am"? All we know is that those who heard it fell to the ground.

Even as he was being arrested, Jesus' thoughts were for his disciples. We will think tomorrow about Peter, so for today let us consider the willingness, the calm, the putting into action what Jesus knew must happen. Why not read the passage again, focusing specifically on Jesus.

Lord Jesus, 
you were betrayed by the kiss of a friend: 
be with those who are betrayed 
and slandered and falsely accused. 
You knew the experience of having 
your love thrown back in your face for mere silver:
be with families which are torn apart 
by mistrust or temptation. 
To you, Jesus, who offered your face to your betrayer,
be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 15 - Gethsemane

Matthew 26 v 36-46 Gethsemane    

(Use the link above to get to the passage)

We take a second day to consider Gethsemane, but this time focus on Jesus' resolve to do his Father's will. Three times he asks if it is possible to have the cup of suffering taken from him, but each time qualifies and acknowledges that the will of his Father is more important. Jesus, who was there at the very creation of the world, had his soul overwhelmed with sorrow. He knew the big picture, and trusted his father, understanding the route to salvation. There was no other way.

How big is our resolve to stay in our Heavenly Father's will? Would we be able to pray "not my will be yours"? How well do we know his will for our lives? Take time today to reflect.

Lord Jesus, 
you entered the garden of fear
and faced the agony of your impending death:
be with those who share 
that agony and face death unwillingly this day. 
You shared our fear and knew the weakness of our humanity:
give strength and hope to the 
dispirited and despairing. 
To you, Jesus, who sweated blood,
be honour and glory with the 
Father and the Holy Spirit, 
now and for ever.
Amen
(www.churchofengland.org)

Day 14 - Jesus prays on the Mount of Olives

Luke 22 v 39-46 Jesus prays on the Mount of Olives    
(Use the link above to get to the passage)

How seriously do we take temptation? At one of Jesus' darkest moments that is what he asks his disciples to pray about. Maybe we might have expected him to ask them to pray for him or for what is about to happen. That would probably be what we would ask our friends to do if we were about to face a difficult situation.

But here Jesus asks them to pray that they will not fall into temptation. That is probably a rare prayer for us, with us focusing more on the past and saying sorry rather than asking God to highlight and keep us from being tempted.

On Jesus' return to the disciples, his words are withering: "Why are you sleeping?" Could he ever say that to us? What do we miss of what he has for us to do/say/pray that we simply don't see because we are sleeping? Set your spiritual alarm clock today and stay awake for him.

God our Father,
in your love and goodness 
you have taught us to come 
close to you in penitence
with prayer, fasting and generosity; 
accept our Lenten discipline, 
and when we fall by our weakness, 
raise us up by your unfailing mercy; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen.
(www.churchofengland.org)