Plot, Oil Woman, Betrayal

1. The Plot Against Jesus  
Matthew 26:5
    "But not during the Feast," they said, "or there may be a riot among the people."
This is when the chief priests and the elders of the people assembled in the palace and were plotting to arrest Jesus in some sly way, but were afraid to do so since Passover was so near. It was bothersome to me that I didn't understand why they didn't want to do it near a celebration. I didn't understand why they wanted to wait since many people wanted Jesus dead for His apparent blasphemy; but why not near the time of a celebration?

Answer: They (high priests and elders) knew people would be in a great mood celebrating and would be more gracious to forgive and not want to hurt anyone during this time.

2. Jesus Anointed at Bethany
Matthew 26: 12
    "When she poured this perfume on my body she did it to prepare me for burial."
Jesus spoke the above and I was curious as to who this woman was and why this is so important that it must be included in the Bible?

Answer: This is the first woman to act, publicly in faith in such a bold manner. Furthermore, this can demonstrate that we should get a fresh anointing before we go to a new place.

3. The Lord's Supper
Matthew 26:24-25
    "The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born.
    Then Judas, the one who would betray him, said, "Surely not I, Rabbi?"
    Jesus answered, "Yes, it is you."
Jesus warned Judas that he would betray him; why didn't he stop?

Answer: He couldn't. It was part of the plan. Sometimes, we want to get out of a rut of sin, but we are unable to. As difficult as it can be, maybe we can all consider asking the Lord how to stop and allow Him and His strength and His power, which is in us, to help us, guide us, and lead us to a freedom filled life where we are no longer bounded by repetitive sin.

Challenge: Take a deep breath, repent, and then leave it as His feet. Hold your head up high because you are covered by the blood and have been given the opportunity to live in freedom. Let God lead you, don't try to be strong on your own.