Scripture

Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus.

~John 18:10, NLT

Quote

All true believers will try to do something to lessen the sorrow and increase the joy of those around them.

~John Charles Ryle

We are all familiar with the story of Peter lopping off Malcus ear and Jesus picking up the ear and putting it back on which meant instant healing which constitutes a miracle but the question I want to ask is: what happened to Malchus after he experienced this miraculous healing? Did he say “Thank You Jesus?” I also wonder if he had second thoughts about what he was doing. He is the servant of Caiaphas, a corrupt and evil man which means he had to know what was going on. Caiaphas hated Jesus and it was for envy and greed that he wanted Jesus executed. The trial of Jesus was not about innocence or guilt, they knew Jesus was innocent, even Pilate knew He was innocent. Did Malchus feel a twinge of guilt about what he was doing? How could such a miracle have no affect on his thinking? Perhaps he did try to stop what was going on; we don’t really know. My big question is how could his interactions with Jesus not make a difference in his life? Perhaps you are thinking, restoring an ear is not that big a deal. We can live without an ear lobe, plus men wore long hair so who would notice? I tend to believe that Malchus was not ready to part with his ear lobe and he was thankful for Jesus intervention. Of course, this is a guess. It is pure speculation. Would it be great to find out when we get to Haven that Malchus was one of the 5,000 saved at Pentecost.

The greater question for you and I to answer is this: has not the LORD been kind and gracious to us; and have we changed our attitude or ways because of it? Or do we presume on His kindness, forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead us to repentance? This is the same question that Paul presented to the Romans {4:2}. The NLT states it like this…Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that His kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? So this is the question: did Jesus’ kindness to Malchus mean nothing to Malchus? Do you think it is possible that we will see Malchus in heaven? Personally, I think it is highly possible.

Extra

I had a mild dilemma yesterday, had one child in jail, one truck impounded, and upper respiratory infection that has muted me with a COLS Saturday and two speaking engagements Sunday. I also have my visits to the sick which I can’t make. I’m not contagious but I can’t talk. I was in my study yesterday morning praying and asking for the LORD’s guidance, He directed me to Psalm 109 in the Anglican Bible…

They reeled and staggered like drunken men and were at their wits’ end. Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper, and quieted the waves of the sea.Then they were glad because of the calm, and he brought them to the harbor they were bound for.

I will reeling and feeling a lot of distress and as soon as I read this passage, I knew it was God speaking to my troubled heart. I didn’t want to go to the doctor for fear it might Be covid but I could not talk above a whisper and there is not way for me to fulfill my obligations this weekend if I can’t speak. Holly came to see me and I had her read the passage again and after talking with her I decided to go to the clinic. When the doctor told me I was not contagious, I would have shouted if I could have. Dr. June says no activity for me today, no grass cutting, no pea picking. My instructions are to read and study all day. PTL

P.S. I don’t mind you praying for me, I still can’t get much about a whisper but I hope that will change in the next 24. It is improving slowly.

Have a great Friday and a great weekend.