The Crisis

   It wasn’t that they didn’t know. They had simply blocked out the possibility of such a strange, unthinkable reality. 
    Yes, Jesus’ word could not have been clearer in those pre-Passion days:
   “We are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and the teachers of the law. They will condemn him to death and will turn him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and flogged and crucified.” (Matthew 20:18-19a)
   Their Master being “betrayed” -- this was a possibility as the disciples were well aware of the animosity the religious leaders had toward Jesus. But “crucified” -- this was inconceivable!
   In the meantime, life remained unchanged. Jesus did not appear to be overly anxious…and there was still the ministry work that filled each day. The bizarre words faded into the background. The disciples continued to learn… and grow closer to Christ.
   Then the day came when a similar message was shared. Jesus again said to His followers:
   “As you know, the Passover is two days away--and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified.” (Matthew 26:2).
   None of the disciples were ready for Gethsemane(vs.26). They were oblivious to the unfolding of their Lord’s Passion. It wasn’t until Judas came with the “ ...