47 While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people. 48 Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.” 49 Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him.
50 Jesus replied, “Do what you came for, friend.” Matthew 26:47-51
I can almost picture Judas pleading with the large crowd not to bring swords and clubs because Jesus was such a gentle and harmless man. There was no need for it. He wouldn’t fight and probably would come willingly.
Then Judas greeted Him with a kiss. How could he? How could he do that?
Fortunately Jesus possessed the wisdom and discipline not to do something bad to Judas and the crowd right there. He had a much greater objective than to right a wrong on the spot. Jesus, having just risen from prayer and intimate communion with God the Father, knew what He had to do and what He had to go through to obtain it. Did He still have urges to call upon the angels of heaven? Probably.
Even though He was the Son of God, He was still in earthly flesh, experiencing the same emotions and feelings we do. He did nothing but what the Father told him to do. And in that He was 100% obedient.
At this point He was singularly focused. Up to his arrest and all the way to the cross, Jesus was in full command. He knew what He was doing and how it would end up.
This was Jesus in all His glory, despite how it looked from an outsider’s perspective.
We live in a crazy world. We literally do not know what the next day brings:
Peace or violence?
Will “they” let us go out into the streets without our masks tomorrow?
Who’s really running the country?
Yet we all know and need to be reminded of one thing: God is still in control. Nothing has surprised Him. The sun will rise tomorrow and set about 12 hours later.
Rest in the assurance that no matter what happens out there, God is watching, taking notes, recording, and in complete control.