But this has all taken place that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples deserted him and fled.

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭26‬:‭56‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Speed bump incoming. 

Betrayed in the garden by Judas and arrested, all the disciples then deserted him and fled. 

Despite fresh vows of loyalty to Jesus, their immediate reflex in the garden was self preservation.

To their credit though, the hasty exit itself was a fulfillment of prophecy. 

Zechariah 13:7: Strike the shepherd and the sheep will scatter. 

Imagine your feeling abandoning your best friend  at his most serious time of need. 

How long did they run away for their lives until stopping to realize what they just did?

But Jesus already anticipated their reaction. It was already cooked into the  bitter recipe that would soon be served Jesus in his final days. 

I’d like to believe that I’d be the exception. That I’d have remained to be by Jesus’ side through it all. 

But alas, like you, I’m a sinner.

Fortunately, our savior knows that our intentions don’t always dictate our behaviors. 

Today, pray you’ll do your best to be faithful but accept it when you fall short. 

That’s precisely why he came.