Walking Away From Woes

“The Son of Man will go as it has been decreed, but woe to that man who betrays Him.” – Luke 22:22

photo by Peter M.

When the disciples had gathered together with Jesus in the upper room for the Passover meal that had been prepared, Jesus spoke these words to the disciples, and forewarned Judas, His betrayer.

His faithful obedience to the Father was not dependant, nor even influenced, by those who surrounded Him.  Though He had taught them, led them and loved them as His dear brothers, one would deny Him and another betray Him.  Furthermore, those who went with Him to the garden to pray, could not even stay awake to pray as He had asked.

If even those, whom He dearly loved, who had been His constant companions for a few years had failed, how much more are we prone to fall short?

Thankfully, because Jesus was willing and went to the cross on our behalf, He made the way for us to keep from betraying beyond forgiveness.  Each nail and thorn, punctured flesh in our place.  Every act of unkindness and failure of faith, was nailed on the cross, and worn on His face.  The exchange occurred so that we might enter into eternity with Him.

Because we are blessed with the presence of His Holy Spirit, we have help, a constant Companion to help keep our hearts right and to beckon us back to Him, away from acts of betrayal.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You made a way for us to walk away from the woes.  Forgive us for our acts of betrayal unto You, who blesses us beyond our own ugliness, and leads us back to obedience again.  Teach us to trust You and never lose sight of the significance of the sacrifice of Your Son.  May our very lives sing of the sanctification You have supplied, to all who have asked and answered Your call.  Lead us to love like You so that we may shine Your light brightly before the world.  Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present