“But I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And you, when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” (Luke 22:32)
Jesus is faithful when everyone and everything around us falls apart. How can we know this is true? In Luke 22 we read about several examples of failure. There is the Judas agreeing to betray Jesus right at the start. Next, comes the disciplesʻ focus on, “Which one of us is the greatest?!” right after Jesus tells them he is about to suffer and the one betraying him is sitting at their table. There are the priests, guards, and elders who arrest him. Judasʻ kiss. Peterʻs denials after boasting of his fidelity. It ends with the religious leadersʻ condemnation of Jesus.
We can have confidence that Jesus is faithful and true when we experience trials and betrayal because when he was betrayed and disappointed he remained faithful and true. Knowing what was coming, Jesus provides for what they need (verses 7-13). Despite the imminent betrayal he desires fellowship (14-15). He knows theyʻre about to deny him but he teaches them (19-20, 25-27). They’re about to abandon him (notice the irony in verse 28) but he prays for them and reminds them of their future reward (29-30). He patiently puts up with Peterʻs boasting (verses 31-34 — For me, hearing someone brag while knowing they are going down a terrible path would be extremely frustrating and very difficult to watch. In my own impatience or irritation I would struggle with being calm or putting up with bad decisions. Jesus was about to be abandoned by “his greatest supporter” and he prayed for, and encouraged him, to be humble and serve others after he turns away from his mistake). He patiently teaches (35-38). He demonstrates reliance on God and the importance of prayer (39-46). He heals (50-51). Throughout the rest of the passage Jesus is mocked, treated as a criminal, and assaulted, yet he patiently endures all the abuse.
How can we know Jesus is faithful and patient with us? In Luke 22 when he had every human reason to quit, he never gave up on his disciples and the plan God has for each of us. The following chapters show that he is willing to endure, even to the cross, and be crucified for our sins. When we have trials and tribulations, we can trust in God because he is faithful to us. Remember that Jesus didnʻt pray that Peter would never face temptation, but that he would return and strengthen others (32). Whatever our circumstances, God has a plan, has patience, and will provide what we need. Philippians 1:6 “I am sure of this, that he who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”