Jesus expected to be cast away and abandoned.

“And then shall many be offended…” – Matthew 24:10

As we break the bread and drink the cup, let us know that this feast was initiated by One whose witness offended many. They were so offended that they would crucify Him

The Lord, Jesus, as He walked among us, was an attractive and compelling character to the masses, but He was not universally admired. In fact, His words, deeds, and presence evoked bitter hostility.

He predicted a time when people would turn from Him and against each other.

“And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.” – Matthew 24:10

A little later, He warned that in His hour of trial, many would turn away because of the offence of it all.

“Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.” Matthew 26:31

He told them that His closest disciples would also abandon Him. At this, Peter protested that he would never forsake his Master.

“Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended.” – Matthew 26:33

We know what happened. Peter failed in His resolve, later to be restored with new commitment and courage by the resurrected Jesus.

There is a hint of hope in a word of caution.

“And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word’s sake, immediately they are offended.” – Mark 4:17

Persecution will come. Those with shallow roots will turn away in offence. That implies that the deeper and the stronger the roots, the more stable one’s faith will be when tested.

In communion, we go deeper in Jesus. We remember His deepest sorrow and shame with gratitude. Our roots get stronger in relationship with Him and with each other.

Let us pray:

Lord Jesus may our roots grow deeper in Thee today.

As we take the bread and cup, may we be strengthened in our faith.

Knit our hearts together in love for Thee and for one another.

May we never take offense at Thee.

In Thy Name. Amen.