Who Will I Be?

Scripture – John 18:1-5: When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was an olive grove, and he and his disciples went into it. Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. So Judas came to the grove, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and 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.)

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Nobody would think of naming their child Judas. That name is so clearly identified with the one who betrayed Jesus, just the mention of it brings up a negative image. What a way to be remembered! The decisions I make today will impact who I am tomorrow. And decisions made over a lifetime will determine how I’m remembered when my life here is over. So how will I live today? What kind of person do I want to be when this day is over?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) This is Ash Wednesday – the beginning of the season of Lent. It’s a time for self-examination, confession and cleansing. I will identify an area in my life that keeps me from being Christ-like. I will turn that over to God and invite Him to work in me over these next few weeks, so when Easter comes, I will be free from this one thing that has held me back.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, thank you for your transforming power in my life. Please set me free. At least, begin doing that today. Thank you for not giving up on me. Thank you for the hope in which I always live. Thank you for the promise of ever-new life.