God's Word comes to us today with urgency! Jesus' words in Matthew 26 are emphatic: "Rise, ... see, My betrayer is at hand." Paul tells us in his first letter to the Church in Corinth that what he has received is of first importance. Jesus Christ did humble Himself to become a human man. This man is foretold in the Old Testament as the Messiah. It is He who would sacrifice Himself for the evil and sin of the entire world. This is great news! In fact, it is of first importance, especially in the 21st-century, post-modern, self-centered culture we live in.
The urgency Jesus conveys in Matthew 26 today is for us, too. Don't let the "betrayer"-the world-sneak up on you! Flee temptation, and live as a restored child of God! Do it today! Make the commitment right now to do whatever you must to break those destructive and sinful habits like gossip, lying, greed, lust, or whatever else is your commonplace sin. Abandon them all at the foot of the cross where Jesus has already taken your punishment. Then go; receive the forgiveness that only comes through His Word and Sacraments. Go out and tell this decaying world the hope and promises of this Good News. There's no time to waste, for Jesus is coming back quickly. This time, however, it's not to save, but to judge!
Share the truth you've been given, and live as one who believes that Christ died for you!
Rise and Go!
THE PRAYER: Jesus, give us the strength and courage every day to resist that which betrays us-the devil and the world's temptations. Teach us to live as Your redeemed children, and be witnesses to the truth of Your life-giving Good News. Amen.
Written by Jeffrey J. Wilson, CPE Chaplain, Reserve Chaplain - United States Air Force
Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri
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