How to handle an active threat

As Jesus was sharing the Passover meal with his disciples, he became profoundly disturbed in spirit. He told those around the table that one of them was going to betray him. The disciples were stunned by his words. They looked around at one another asking, “Lord, It couldn’t be me, could it?” Jesus responded, saying that he would dip a piece of bread in the sauce and then give it to one of them. That would be the one who would betray him. Jesus dipped the bread, then, turning to Judas, said in a tone that I’m quite sure was both gentle and firm, “Go ahead and do  what you intend to do.” I can imagine there was a long pause before Judas slowly reached out and took the bread. Then he quickly left the room and went out into the dark night (Mark 14:18-21 and parallels).
       It must have caused Jesus great personal anguish to watch one of his disciples turn against him. As a group they had all been so close for three years. Jesus did not berate Judas or accuse him for the coming act of betrayal. Very quietly, but very directly, he answered Judas’ “Is it I?” with “It is just as you have said.” By his gentle manner Jesus was making it easier for Judas to change his mind and not follow through with his act of betrayal. When that did not happen, he had no option but to let the truth be known. Jesus had done everything he could to prevent Judas from carrying out a plan devised by Satan.
       In today’s world such a remarkable quality of character is rarely seen. When faced by someone who intends to harm us, our natural response is to take the initiative and harm the other first.  The way Jesus reacted provides a better alternative. We should wait in quietness as the act begins to unfold, praying that God will bring to our opponent’s mind the sinfulness of what he intends to do. Strength of character is not measured by how vociferously we defend our reputation. If we are living in love – and we must be if we are living as Christ desires – we will relate to those who would ham us exactly as Jesus did that night in the upper room.
       “But,” you say, “that’s beyond my ability.” And you are right. Scripture has never suggested that we are able to live the spiritual life on our own. There is an immeasurable difference between our ability and God’s power. The good news is that God has supplied us with the power to live as Christ did. The Holy Spirit dwells within and is fully capable to provide the strength necessary to meet the challenge. In situations lying beyond our natural abilities, turn to the One who will freely supply the power for victory.