Matthew 26-28

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Go Therefore and Make Disciples of All the Nations

Jesus knew that his disciples weren’t as ready as they thought they were for the final phase of His mission on earth – His crucifixion and resurrection. He knew that Judas would betray Him and yet, in remorse hang himself. He knew that Peter could not stand by his bold statement that he would never fall away – that Peter would deny even knowing Jesus, three times that very night! Jesus knew that most of His closest friends would abandon Him to suffer death on the cross alone. Yet, all these occurrences were a fulfillment of prophecy. And all prophecy had to be fulfilled – even though it meant a period of confusion and darkness and sorrow for those He loved. How heavy His heart must have been that final evening with His disciples! How precious that final meal – how precious that final song – how precious that final time together in the garden! Though His disciples would falter because their flesh was weak, Jesus knew that every one of them (except for Judas) would carry on His work after He was gone.  Dear Father, help us to keep watch and pray, because we know that our flesh is weak. When we falter, help us to get back up and continue to go forward – fulfilling Your purpose for us. Encourage us and strengthen us so that we will represent you well. And may we be comforted with these words of our Lord, Jesus; “and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”