Walk In The Spirit

And even as Jesus said this, Judas, one of the twelve disciples, arrived with a crowd of men armed with swords and clubs. They had been sent by the leading priests and elders of the people. The traitor, Judas, had given them a prearranged signal: “You will know which one to arrest when I greet him with a kiss.” So Judas came straight to Jesus. “Greetings, Rabbi!” he exclaimed and gave him the kiss. Jesus said, “My friend, go ahead and do what you have come for.” Then the others grabbed Jesus and arrested him. But one of the men with Jesus pulled out his sword and struck the high priest’s slave, slashing off his ear. Put away your sword,” Jesus told him. “Those who use the sword will die by the sword. Don’t you realize that I could ask my Father for thousands of angels to protect us, and he would send them instantly? But if I did, how would the Scriptures be fulfilled that describe what must happen now?” Then Jesus said to the crowd, “Am I some dangerous revolutionary, that you come with swords and clubs to arrest me? Why didn’t you arrest me in the Temple? I was there teaching every day. But this is all happening to fulfill the words of the prophets as recorded in the Scriptures.” At that point, all the disciples deserted him and fled.
(Matthew 26:47-56 NLT)

Judas was one of the chosen 12. Puzzling it is that this chosen disciple could betray his Master. I have often said that Jesus chose Judas but Judas didn't choose Jesus. What is more mind boggling in this passage is the sheer composure, concentration, and astounding love Jesus had for Judas even as he betrayed Him. The other disciples were probably ready to kill Judas. Peter sliced off the ear of one of the high priest's slave. Because Jesus had submitted His flesh to the will of the Father, He was able to face this situation with the right spirit.
Galatians 5:16 tells us to walk in the Spirit and we will not fulfill the desire of our flesh. When we are facing the worst life can offer, even death, we can learn from Jesus example: Pray! Jesus chose to follow through with the purpose of His birth, to die. His arrest, trial, scourging (brutal beating), and crucifixion were the gateway to salvation.
Matthew 1:21 said He would be called "Jesus" because He would save His people from their sins. The name Jesus means "The Lord Who Saves". The disciples deserted Him. If we would have been there, we would have likely done the same. In spite of all this, Jesus chose to die for us. He lived the perfect life and laid it down for you and me.
I am astounded!!!!!!!