Dear Reader,
Although I have read this specific scripture many times before, I don’t think I’ve ever registered exactly what verse 6 is saying.
This event took place after Jesus finished praying at Getsemane and were heading out with his disciples, fully knowing that the time has come for Him to be captured.
Now it is interesting to take note, that when Judas found them in the garden, he was accompanied by about 400 to 600 Roman soldiers as well as some of the temple guards. They were carrying torches and lanterns and were armed with different weapons.
Why on earth would they send over 400 Roman soldiers to capture one man? My guess is they were afraid of Him because they knew of all the wonders He had done! – He healed the sick; multiply the bread and fish and even rose Lazarus from the dead!
But this is the amazing thing! When Jesus asked who they were looking for and they replied: “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus answered them with this simple, short sentence: “I am He!”
This caused them to draw back and fell to the ground. It actually refers to the way a boxer will fall after a knockout – meaning he has no control and no way to prevent his fall! This is a rather strange reaction for so many armed soldiers and temple guards, coming face to face with the ONE man that they were send to capture!
What will be the cause of this?
If we look at the Greek words for “I am He”,
it is Ego Eimi. The exact same words that God said to Moses in the Old Testament,
in answer to his question: “Who should I say have sent me?” And God answered:
“I am.”
I believe that when Jesus spoke these words his Godly Presence and Power has been manifested, and therefore the crowd were unable to stay standing before Him!
Just imagine! The garden well lit by the full moon and the light of more than 400 lanterns and torches. And this large crowd simply falling down in front of Him when he said: “I am He!”
In spite of all their scheming and evil plans, regardless of how many people they’ve send, they couldn’t capture Him. All they could do was just fall down in His holy presence!
But since Jesus knows what he had to do – He willingly went with them – allowing them to arrest Him, bound Him and bringing Him to the high-priest Annas.
Do you know anyone that will have such an effect on you? I doubt it.
I think it is time that we really start to fear (respect) God. Starting by taking the time and really meditate about his Holiness and Power. That we can start serving and worshipping Him simply for who He is, and not for what we expect Him to do for us!
Astonishing!
My prayer for you and me today, is that we will start reading the Bible with a different mindset. That it will become a journey in discovering the true and powerful nature of God. And be amazed that He wants to have a relationship with each one of us!
So, dear Reader: will you start this new and exciting journey with me today?
Thanks for reading,
Susan
Life Letters 