The Awful Event. Beloved, today we gather to think about what Jesus called the awful event—His betrayal, suffering, and death. These verses in Luke are not just prophecy; they are a window into the heart of redemption. Jesus speaks plainly, not to frighten His disciples, but to prepare them—and us—for the cost of salvation.

“He will be delivered over to the Gentiles. They will mock him, insult him and spit on him; they will flog him and kill him. On the third day he will rise again.”

Luke 18:32–33 (NIV)

The Reality of Suffering

Jesus foretells His agony: betrayal, mockery, humiliation, torture, and death. This was not a surprise—it was divine intention. The cross was not an accident; it was the altar of mercy. In our lives, suffering often feels senseless. But in Christ, suffering becomes sacred when it is surrendered to God’s purpose.

Application:

Are we willing to follow Jesus even when the path leads through pain? Do we trust that God is available in the awful moments?

The Depth of Humiliation

“They will mock Him, insult Him, spit on Him…” The Son of God endured the worst of human cruelty. He was stripped of dignity so we could be clothed in righteousness. Jesus did not retaliate. He absorbed shame to redeem our brokenness.

Application:
When we are mocked or misunderstood for our faith, we share in Christ’s suffering. Let us respond with grace, not bitterness.

The Triumph of Resurrection

“On the third day He will rise again.” The awful event ends not in defeat, but in victory. The resurrection is God’s answer to every injustice, every sorrow, every death.

Application:
No matter how dark the night, Sunday is coming. In Christ, every cross leads to a crown.

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The awful event was awful indeed—but it was also awesome in its outcome. Through it, we see the depth of God’s love, the cost of our redemption, and the power of resurrection.
Let us not shy away from the cross. Let us embrace it, knowing that through suffering, God brings salvation.

🙏 Closing Prayer

O Lord Jesus, thank You for enduring the awful event for our sake. Help us to never forget the price You paid. Give us courage to walk with You through suffering, and faith to believe in resurrection. May Your victory be our hope, and Your love our strength. Amen.