Good morning. Today is Tuesday, December 23, 2025. I love the quote by Ernest Hemingway that says, “There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self.” True strength is working harder on yourself than proving yourself to others. Jesus could have, with a single word, vanquished His captors—yet because of love, He chose something different. Let’s take a look.
Today's Reading:
John 15,16,17,18
Scripture
“Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?” “Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “I am he,” Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them). When Jesus said, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. (John 18:4–6)
Observation
Jesus was all-knowing and all-powerful, yet He submitted to arrest to fulfill the prophecy of the Messiah’s death and resurrection. Judas, one of His own disciples, led a group of Pharisees, temple guards, and Roman soldiers to seize Him. Fully aware of what was coming, Jesus stepped forward and asked, “Who is it you want?” When they answered, “Jesus of Nazareth,” He simply replied, “I am He.” At those words, the entire group fell to the ground.
In that moment, Jesus revealed His authority—and then restrained it. Seeing a man knock an entire group of soldiers to the ground with just a few words might cause anyone to stop and reconsider. Yet Jesus did not resist. He conceded, not out of weakness, but out of love for the world. We’ve all seen what happens when power is used to destroy. Jesus shows us something greater. Jesus teaches us that real strength must always be fueled by love.
Application
Where are you tempted to prove your strength instead of practicing restraint? Real strength is often seen in surrender, compassion, and obedience—especially when we have the strength, power, and authority to put offenders in their place. What would Jesus do? He would let love motivate Him, and we must do the same.
Today, ask yourself: Am I using my strength to love others, or to protect my pride? Will I choose love or self? Let us love.
Prayer
Dear Lord,
Thank You for teaching us what real strength looks like. Help me to surrender my pride, restrain my words, and choose love even when I feel justified in using my power. May my life reflect the strength of Jesus.
Amen.
–Aaron Cordeiro
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