(Jesus said) "Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs? When I was with you day after day in the temple, you did not lay hands on Me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness" (Luke 22:52b-53).
Read Luke 22:52-53.
Jesus now turns to the Jewish leaders. He protests the way they are going about arresting Him. Like Judas a moment ago, He wants them to realize the true nature of their deeds. They think they are serving God, but in reality they are serving the prince of darkness.
First, He points out the large armed guard they assembled. Jesus is neither a lawbreaker, nor a violent man. He has never preached armed rebellion or insurrection. He has only preached repentance and the coming of the kingdom of heaven. His deeds have all been good and kind, benefiting the sick, the hurting, and the dying.
He then reminds them of all the times He preached and taught before them in the temple courts. If they really had grounds to lay their hands on Him, they should have done it then. But Jesus had given them no cause to arrest Him-and the fact they came out at night is proof of that.
Like cowards they emerge under cover of darkness when the crowds are far away. This late hour of the night is their hour-when the power of darkness reigns.
This may be the hour when they seem to have the upper hand, but Jesus implies another hour is coming-an hour when God's truth will be manifest, when Jesus will burst through the gates of death at the resurrection.
THE PRAYER: Lord Jesus, You exposed the evil intentions of Your enemies in order to bring them to repentance and faith. Turn me from my evil ways that I may live to Your glory. Amen.
Today's Bible Readings: Leviticus 23-24 Mark 10:32-52
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