Scripture Reading: Matthew 26:1-75
Song of the Day: Suffering Servant by Dustin Kensrue
Focus Verse: Matthew 26:38-39
The events of Matthew Chapter 26 pave the way for the inevitable crucifixion of Jesus. From the beginning, Jesus knew what was to come yet he maintained his faith and continued to carry out the will of God. There were many who plotted against Jesus and turned against him, including some of his own disciples. At one point, while in Gethsemane, Jesus prays that if it is possible, he would not be crucified. Jesus ultimately prays for the Father’s will to be done and accepts his role in God’s plan. What can we learn from this? It is shown how difficult these times must have been for Jesus. No matter what he faced, Jesus’s faith remained unbreakable. Those who turn away or question God often do so in times of hardship. It can be difficult because we know that God is in control and wonder why something terrible may happen under his vigilance. In this chapter however, Jesus shows us the importance of maintaining strong faith despite what may happen to us. Every one of us goes through hardships in our lives whether it be losing someone we love, being antagonized by others, struggling with sin, etc. We’re all currently having to deal with a worldwide pandemic, isolation, and being unsure of when we can get back to our lives. These hardships can be the ultimate test of faith for many of us, but they can also be chances to grow stronger in our faith because we know that God is always with us.
Prayer: Pray to God asking him to guide you when it seems that all the light has been snuffed out. Ask for forgiveness for all of the times when you may have turned from God or hurt someone else in your own anger or sadness. Finally, pray that God will give you the strength and courage needed to follow him, even though you may be hated by those who are too attached to the world.
Activity: Take this time to reflect on hardships you’ve faced in your life. Try to remember what you may have done as a result and if it would be what God wants. Think of how Jesus responded in today’s chapter and how you can follow his example of trusting in God.