Children and Families - Scripture Union NZ

When they thought about it later, they all knew things weren't going to end well. The leaders at the temple didn't like Jesus and they were stirring up trouble. They were plotting to do away with Jesus.  But what none of Jesus' friends could ever have seen coming was that it would be one of them who would get Jesus arrested.  When they saw Judas coming through the olive trees that night they were absolutely flabbergasted. Judas was surrounded by soldiers as he walked. He came right up to Jesus and kissed him on the check. Judas looked tortured, as if his life was falling to pieces . And then the soldiers swooped and everything turned crazy. Swords were drawn, a soldiers ear was swiped clean off by Peter who was in a real rage.  As Andrew sat telling the tale to Mary and Martha later that day, he pictured Jesus' face so clearly. He was calm. In the middle of all the madness Jesus was calm. Just like he had been in that great storm on the lake. Oh so calm. And he ...

It's the next day. Peter has had a rough night. He tossed and turned, trying to make sense of what Jesus was doing. James and Andrew stayed up late talking. And this morning it still seems confusing. They have stay ed in Bethany but now Jesus is getting ready to head back into the city. T hey want him to stay away from troubl e.  But Jesus isn't interested in hidin g away. Every day he ends up in discussions with the leaders in the temple, he heals the sick and he tells his amazing stories to anyone who will listen.  T his morning his face looks stressed, as if he is carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders. L unch is packed, sandals are strapped and they are on their way.    Later on, af ter they have visited the temple , Jesus and the disciples walk up to the Mount of Olives. They find a shady spot to avoid the heat of the day. Peter, James , John and Andrew sit down next to Jesus, away from the others. They want to know what Jesus means when he sa...