Today we read the 72 verses of Mark ch. 14; it is a heart moving account, especially if read slowly and thoughtfully in a way that engages our heart and not just our mind. It is a fairly detailed record of the day before the arrest of Jesus and then of his arrest and how this shattered the faith of his disciples.  Their faith was based on sight, they were to learn that true faith is having “the eyes of your heart enlightening, that you may know …” [Eph. 2 v.18]

What is our faith based on?  Are we ready for a real test of our faith as this world falls apart? In some parts of the world real tests are taking place now. Let us make every effort to build up our faith so that when we sense his return is really imminent – and all around us is in increasing chaos – we firmly endure – until our faith is turned to sight.  Meditate on the scene when Jesus stood before the High Priest, and a mixture of witnesses made accusation against him because “the whole counsel were seeking testimony against Jesus to put him to death, but they found none …. Many bore false witness against him.” [v.55,56]  It was the middle of the night, we are in awe as we imagine the intense emotions!

The High Priest then asked Jesus, ‘Have you no answer to make?  … but he remained silent … Again the High Priest asked him, ‘Are you the Christ (the Messiah) …?’   “Then Jesus responded, “I am, and you will see the Son of man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.” [v.60-62]. From Jesus words’ in Luke 13 v.28, “there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God and you yourselves thrust out” [Luke 13 v.28] it is clear that his accusers will be raised to life to witness his return and glory.  What agony of horror, what utter dismay will fill their hearts!  Imagine it?   

A more important question will be our feelings when we are privileged to see this. Surely his coming is near, those younger in heart can surely say to each other ‘and you will see Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom and ….’               And what?  We will see each other there too!  What feelings will be ours? We make sure of the answer now.