From Mark 14:43-50 / Earnestly Wrong – I identify with the Jesus’ sword wielding disciple. Here is the one he thought to be the Messiah – as he conceived the Messiah to be. He had walked with Him for years. Heard Him speak. Watched His miracles. Partook of miraculously multiplied bread. Seen Him perform countless miracles. Anticipated serving under Him in His Kingdom. Loved Him. Left home and family for Him. It was only natural that everything within him would rise up against this perceived threat, and respond in righteous indignation and defense with genuine and vigorous earnestness. But to step in here, no matter how logical and earnest, would be to act counter to the Scripture’s fulfillment. He did not yet understand the mission of the Redeemer in its fullness as the Old Testament had laid it out. And I wonder if we too can fail to respond to the threats, dangers and challenges of our culture and generation, in earnest and vigorous ways, which fail to understand how things will be in the earth until the King returns to take up His earthly throne. To act almost as though we are to bring the Kingdom about through politics and power, rather than through the transformation of men’s souls by the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Have we forgotten that Jesus Himself told us that the gates of Hell shall not prevail against His Church? And have we forgotten, victory is through the Cross, not the voting booth? Preach and live the Gospel. This is our call. Lift up Christ. And as it is written concerning His resurrection: “He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet.” Believe it. It will be so.