In the Garden
73
The angel withdrew; the light faded away; Jesus was left standing,
calm and self-possessed, with the bright beams of the moon upon his
pale face, and still surrounded by prostrate, helpless men, while the
disciples were too much amazed to utter a word. When the angel
departed, the Roman soldiers started to their feet, and, with the priests
and Judas, gathered about Christ as though ashamed of their weakness,
and fearful that he would yet escape from their hands. Again the
question was asked by the Redeemer, “Whom seek ye?” Again they
answered, “Jesus of Nazareth.” The Saviour then said, “I have told
you that I am he. If, therefore, ye seek me, let these go their way”—
pointing to the disciples. In this hour of humiliation Christ’s thoughts
were not for himself, but for his beloved disciples. He wished to save
them from any farther trial of their strength.
Judas, the betrayer, did not forget his part, but came close to Jesus,
and took his hand as a familiar friend, and bestowed upon him the
traitor’s kiss. Jesus said to him, “Friend, wherefore art thou come?”
His voice trembled with sorrow as he addressed the deluded Judas:
“Betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?” This most touching appeal
should have roused the conscience of the betrayer, and touched his
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stubborn heart; but honor, fidelity, and human tenderness had utterly
forsaken him. He stood bold and defiant, showing no disposition to
relent. He had given himself up to the control of Satan, and he had no
power to resist him. Jesus did not reject the traitor’s kiss. In this he
gives us an example of forbearance, love, and pity, that is without a
parallel.
Though the murderous throng were surprised and awed by what
they had seen and felt, their assurance and hardihood returned as they
saw the boldness of Judas in touching the person of Him whom they
had so recently seen glorified. They now laid violent hands upon
Jesus, and proceeded to bind those precious hands that had ever been
employed in doing good.
When the disciples saw that band of strong men lying prostrate
and helpless on the ground, they thought surely their Master would
not suffer himself to be taken; for the same power that prostrated that
hireling mob could cause them to remain in a state of helplessness
until Jesus and his companions should pass unharmed beyond their
reach. They were disappointed and indignant as they saw the cords
brought forward to bind the hands of Him whom they loved. Peter in