Surely not I?

We will often come to difficult situations in our life where we feel that we must face them on our own.

Matthew 26.14-30

Reference:  v.22  They were very sad and began to say to him one after the other, “Surely not I, Lord?” (NIV Bible)

Explore:  When Jesus told the disciples that one of them was going to betray him they all started asking, ‘Surely not I?’  Those who are well read in the lead up to the Easter story will know that it was Judas who betrayed Jesus (I hope I didn’t spoil the end for anyone!)  And yet in some way all the disciples betrayed him.  Jesus walked a very lonely road to the cross, so much so that even his closest disciples – Peter, James and John – slept while Jesus poured his sorrow and trouble out to God (Matt 26.40).  The cross was a burden that Jesus had to carry on His own.

Application:  We will often come to difficult situations in our life where we feel that we must face them on our own.  There are some responsibilities that we must carry ourselves.  And yet, because of Jesus’ life here on earth and because God sent the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, we know and have the assurance that God is always with us.  It doesn’t take away the hurt and the trouble, but it gives us a hope that there is someone beside us every single step of the way.  Sometimes, in those dark and lonely moments it’s even difficult to notice God’s presence.  But God has promised to always be there for us, and so we have faith that He never breaks His promises.  When you are in the dark and troubled times, keep searching for God and calling out to Him.

Prayer:  Lord, there are times when You seem so far away.  But just as your love endures forever so too will I continue to rely on You.  Amen.

What helps you endure through dark and troubled times?

Matthew