Mark Chapter 14
The Jews were preparing to observe Passover, a time of remembrance when the blood of sacrificial lamb had saved their ancestors. But some religious leaders had another agenda, which was to put Jesus to death and Judas agreed to betray Him.
Jesus was anointed just before His death. The woman who anointed Jesus’ feet with her hair was Mary, Lazarus, and Martha’s sister (John 12:1-3). In the Old Testament, a prophet, priest, or king would be anointed as a sign of consecration before they begin their service for God. And at this very moment, Jesus was about to bear all the sins of mankind on the cross. Jesus is the King, the High Priest, the I AM, and the Passover lamb whose blood delivers us from eternal death and frees us from the power of sin.
Whereas Mark says, “some of those at the table,” John specifically mentions Judas (John 12:4-5). Judas’s indignation over Mary’s act was not based on concern for the poor but rather on greed. Because Judas was the treasurer of Jesus’ ministry, and he was a thief. He had stolen the money that was put in the money box (John 12:6). No doubt, he wanted the perfume sold so that he could benefit from the proceeds.
Mark 14:18-19
Now as they sat and ate, Jesus said, “Assuredly, I say to you, one of you who eats with Me will betray Me.” And they began to be sorrowful, and to say to Him one by one, “Is it I?” And another said, “Is it I?”
The disciples had been with Jesus for three years. They lived with Him, learned from Him, and ate with Him. Yet, they wondered if they were going to be the one to betray Him. Later on, at the last part of Mark 14, we also learn how Peter denies Jesus three times (Mark 14:66-72).
It hurts to hear these words of Jesus! How much more it hurts the Lord to say these words that He will be betrayed by one of His closest disciples. As I read Mark 14:18-19, I asked myself this question, ”Have I ever betrayed you Lord”. Of course, I am guilty too, and my tears start flowing down as I reflect upon myself.
We all are guilty of betraying the Lord or letting Him down one way or another in our faith journey. It might be a particular sin that we have committed or temptation that we struggle with. I learn from the disciples and to remember that at any time we all are vulnerable to sin, even at the point when we feel strong spiritually. Jesus told us to watch and pray, so that we will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. So, let us always be on guard!