Our scripture today is John 18:5-6 (MEV).
They answered Him, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus said to them, “I am He.” And Judas, who betrayed Him, was standing with them. When He said, “I am He,” they drew back and fell to the ground.
Jesus has used “I am” statements in parables before to help explain who He is and what He has come to do. They are gentle examples to make us think. Here it is very different. (This passage always makes me shiver.) When armed men come to arrest Him, He asks who they seek, and when they say ‘Jesus of Nazareth” He replies “I am He”. There is no gentle example here – this is the Lion of Judah, the Son of God – and at His statement ”they drew back and fell to the ground.” All the power of Creation at His command, but instead of defending Himself, He says “I told you that I am He. So then let these go their way if you are looking for Me” (John 18:8). Jesus gave Himself up in exchange for the safety of those He loved in the same way He gave Himself up for our sin.
Heavenly Father, we are amazed at what You have done for us by sending Jesus to save us. Forgive us for our timid discipleship. Renew us and send us to proclaim the Risen Christ everywhere. Amen.
