As we continue to look at “last things” Jesus did, let’s move across the Kidron Valley and into the garden area where Jesus and the disciples often visited. In the midst of the olive trees, this garden provided a quiet place for them to be free of crowds and have quiet time together. Evidently, Judas knew this would be the place to find the master that dark night.
The hour is late, the disciples weary and sleepy. Even though Jesus urges them to pray with him and for him, their eyes are heavy. So Jesus has his own time of private prayer, agonizing over coming events, so intense that it produces sweat drops of blood.
Soon the plodding sounds of Temple guard boots make their way into the garden. In the confusion of dangling swords, lit lanterns, and gruff men, the disciples rouse quickly from their sleep.
According to Matthew and Mark’s account, one disciple reaches for his sword and swings. It swipes at the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear. Luke informs us that it was the servant’s right ear and that Jesus touched the man and healed him. John supplies the names in this scene. Simon Peter is the one who swung the sword and Malchus is the name of the servant.
Consider this moment through the eyes of Jesus. Drops of blood and sweat are still wet on his face with the mounting burden of the cross on his mind. Yet his own disciple swings a sword without his approval, requiring a prompt reprimend. After Jesus rebukes Peter, he moves quickly to Malchus who has dropped to his knees, holding his head in pain. Jesus kneels beside the injured man and as Dr. Luke tells us, he touches Malchus and heals him..
No doubt the bewildered crowd of sweaty soldiers watch this amazing moment of tender care, wondering who is this man who heals and has compassion on an enemy! Had any of them witnessed any of Jesus’ miracles? Or had they been brought in when Jesus overturned the tables at the Temple? Had they heard his teaching?
Regardless, they continue with their duty to arrest Jesus and take him to the High Priest. Did they report the healing? Did Malchus report it to the High Priest? Likely not. The High priest and members of the Sanhedrin had only one thing on their minds—take Jesus down!
How did this tender healing affect Malchus? Maybe he had witnessed the triumphal entry into Jerusalem less than a week earlier? Did he hear Jesus teaching in the temple or witness a healing? Had he heard of the raising of Lazarus from the dead? Did he become a believer after this encounter with the Savior? We aren’t told. But after being touched by the master, I imagine it had a profound affect on Malchus.
And for us? We can see that even with foreseeable torture and pain ahead, Jesus’ compassionate love shines through. He ever stands ready to heal us and guide us in our Gethsemane moments.
~ Joyce ~