There are so many emotional highs and lows in this chapter of Luke. Something that jumps out to me through each story is a cry of 'being ready'. Not every story ended pleasantly, but the implication is there nonetheless.
In vs 4, Judas conferred with the chief priests to plot to kill Jesus. "JUDAS! BE READY!"
In vs 13, Peter and John found the upper room just as Jesus described. "PETER and JOHN! BE READY!"
In vs 23, all the disciples questioned who would betray Jesus. "DISCIPLES! BE READY!"
In vs 24, they questioned who would be greatest. Again, "DISCIPLES! BE READY!"
In vs 33, Peter thinks he's ready to 'go with Jesus to death' and Jesus tells him he will deny Him. "PETER! BE READY!"
In vs 38, the disciples think they have enough supplies for the road. "DISCIPLES! BE READY!"
In vs 46, Peter, James and John were to be praying, but they slept. "DISCIPLES! BE READY!"
In vs 53, Jesus wanted to know why the men didn't capture Him before now. "EVILDOERS! BE READY!"
In vs 62, Peter wept when he heard the rooster crowing, remembering Jesus' words. "PETER! BE READY!"
In vs 71, the Sanhedrin said they heard enough from Jesus about who He said He was. "PEOPLE! BE READY!"
Men, we should be ready to listen to the voice of God when he says to go and find a man bearing a pitcher of water, follow him and make ready for the Passover—that's our faith in God. We should be ready when He tells us to get 'supplies' for the road—that's our daily walk with Him. We should be ready when people ask if we are one of His disciples and not be ashamed—that's our testimony and who we are!
As REAL men, we should be constantly watching, praying and witnessing. We should be making ready for His return. The world doesn't understand like we do, the urgency of making sure we are ready when He returns. Jesus said in vs 70 when they asked if He was the Son of God—"You rightly say that I am." HE IS!
Men, let's be challenged today in our walk w/God about getting ready and staying that way. Once we know we are ready, let's get our homes ready, our wives and children. Then let's tell the world to BE READY!
Tim Jacobs
Friday
Luke 22
