Transforming Encounters: The 40-Day Challenge (Luke)Sample

A great number of people’s lives have been transformed because they met Jesus - even today. The encounter between Jesus and Judas, however, had the opposite effect as it changed the course of Jesus’ life, from teaching the masses and spending time with his disciples to being tortured, humiliated and crucified. All of this pain, which even Jesus feared, caused by a single kiss from someone he was close to.

Jesus could have stopped Judas. He could have told his disciples who was to betray Him and they would try to protect Him. But He didn’t. He shared His last meal with Judas, knowing about the deal Judas had made. Jesus’ life changed in the moment of betrayal, but He didn’t. He still didn’t want any of his enemies getting hurt. He didn’t run, He didn’t fight.

We cannot change the decisions of others or save them from sin, but it is up to us how we respond to them. Will we draw our swords or show love to those around us? Will we cut off ears or heal them? People close to us can hurt us, but we have a choice. Can we still love that person, asinner like us, and trust in God’s plan?

Start praying today for those who have betrayed you, who have taken advantage of you, who have pretended to be your friends. Call them your friends and show them the love that comes from God.