QT Sharing (4 Apr)

Scripture Reading: JOHN 18:1-14

Jesus Arrested

1When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was an olive grove, and he and his disciples went into it.
2Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. 3So Judas came to the grove, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons.
4Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, "Who is it you want?"
5"Jesus of Nazareth," they replied.
"I am he," Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.) 6When Jesus said, "I am he," they drew back and fell to the ground.
7Again he asked them, "Who is it you want?" And they said, "Jesus of Nazareth."
8"I told you that I am he," Jesus answered. "If you are looking for me, then let these men go." 9This happened so that the words he had spoken would be fulfilled: "I have not lost one of those you gave me."[a]
10Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest's servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant's name was Malchus.)
11Jesus commanded Peter, "Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?"

Jesus Taken to Annas

12Then the detachment of soldiers with its commander and the Jewish officials arrested Jesus. They bound him 13and brought him first to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year. 14Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jews that it would be good if one man died for the people.

"I am he" That was what Jesus replied to the troop. No hesitation. Was Jesus afraid? Maybe, maybe not. But one thing for sure I know is that His heart was at peace and He knew that the Father was in control. "Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?" That was His reply to Peter. Jesus was certain that what He was about to go through is the idea of the Father and was assured that the Father would be able to deliver Him through.
Maybe at present context, we are not facing any 'persecution'. But if we were to be persecuted, can we be as nonchalant as to declare that we are followers of Christ? I am not sure about myself. Having to face death, or worst, tortures, I will not be too sure if I can even utter a word. Even if not persecution, in our daily life, are we living a life for Christ? Are we proud of our faith and do we let known to people about our faith? To be frank, I am struggling. I don't outright proclaim to others that I am a Christian. I wish I had the courage to do it.