John 18:3-11

So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons.  Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?”  “Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “I am he,” Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.) When Jesus said, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground.  Again he asked them, “Who is it you want?” “Jesus of Nazareth,” they said.  Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. If you are looking for me, then let these men go.” This happened so that the words he had spoken would be fulfilled: “I have not lost one of those you gave me.” Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.) Jesus commanded Peter, “Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?”

Good Friday, one of the most somber days in the Christian calendar, marks the day of Christ’s crucifixion. For the Hebrews, the Sabbath started Friday at sundown.  Leaving the second-floor apartment the motley crew followed Jesus to a small private garden to pray.  A place of seclusion, a place apart from all the noise and clamor of trumpets from the temple. Prayer of questions and acceptance brought peace to the heart of Jesus. The sweet serenity of the moment was broken by a small squad of Roman soldiers with torches and weapons.  Questions of “why” and “who” were accompanied with flashing swords and healed ears.  Peace interrupted. But not peace destroyed.  Jesus simply let go of this moment of peace and grabbed another. “Put the sword into the sheath; the cup which the Father has given Me, Shall I not drink it.” Peace for me!