March 20 – Mark 14

Mark 14 weaves a poignant tale of deep devotion and profound betrayal, beginning with a poignant act of worship and leading up to the climactic moments of Jesus’ arrest and trial. This chapter captures the final intimate moments between Jesus and His disciples during the Last Supper and in Gethsemane. It also presents the darkest moments of betrayal by Judas and denial by Peter. It invites us to reflect on our own capacity for loyalty and treachery, sacrifice and fear

The Anointing at Bethany (Mark 14:1-9)

A woman anoints Jesus with costly perfume at Simon the leper’s house in Bethany. Despite some disciples’ criticisms of waste, Jesus commends her for anointing Him for burial and predicts her act will be remembered worldwide.

The Plot to Kill Jesus and Judas’ Betrayal (Mark 14:10-11)

Judas Iscariot agrees to betray Jesus for money. This act of treachery reminds us of the dangers of greed and the importance of guarding our hearts against temptation.

Preparation for the Passover and The Last Supper (Mark 14:12-25)

Jesus instructs His disciples on where to prepare the Passover meal. At supper, Jesus identifies Judas as His betrayer and institutes the Lord’s Supper, identifying the bread as His body and the wine as His blood of the new covenant.

Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial (Mark 14:26-31)

After singing a hymn, they move to the Mount of Olives where Jesus predicts Peter’s denial before the rooster crows twice. Peter vehemently denies this.

Jesus Prays in Gethsemane (Mark 14:32-42)

In Gethsemane, Jesus prays intensely, asking God, if possible, to let the cup of suffering pass from Him, yet submitting to God’s will. He finds the disciples sleeping and admonishes them.

The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus (Mark 14:43-52)

Judas arrives with armed men and betrays Jesus with a kiss. One disciple tries to resist, but Jesus admonishes him. All His disciples desert Him.

Jesus Before the Sanhedrin (Mark 14:53-65)

Jesus is taken before the Sanhedrin where false witnesses testify against Him. Asked if He is the Christ, Jesus affirms it, leading to His condemnation.

Peter’s Denial of Jesus (Mark 14:66-72)

Despite his earlier bravado,as predicted, Peter denies knowing Jesus three times before the rooster crows twice, leading to his deep remorse. This highlights human weakness and the need for reliance on God’s strength.

Action Points

• Reflect on areas in your life where you might be tempted to compromise your faith for worldly gain.
• Regularly participate in communion with a heart of gratitude, remembering the sacrifice Jesus made for our salvation.
• In times of trial, seek God’s guidance and strength, trusting in His perfect plan for your life.
• Recognize your own vulnerabilities and seek accountability and support from fellow believers.