Devotional Reflection Based on the Incident of Peter Cutting Off Malchus's Ear: “Then one of those standing near drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.” ( Mark 14:47, Today's Korean Version ) 1. Identifying the People Involved: The person who stood beside Jesus and drew the sword was Simon Peter . The servant of the high priest was named Malchus . “Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus.” ( John 18:10 ) 2. Jesus' Response to Peter's Action: (a) Jesus said: “Permit even this.” ( Luke 22:51, KJV: “Suffer ye thus far”; RSV: “No more of this” ) The Greek words clarify this: “ἕως τούτου” (“heōs toutou”) = “up to this point” or “even this” “ἐᾶτε” (“eate”) = “allow it,” “let it be,” “leave it alone” Therefore, Jesus is essentially saying: “Let them do what they are doing. Do not resist any further.” “If ...
Let’s pray together with one accord! [Acts 4:23-31] A faithful daughter-in-law lived under constant persecution from her unbelieving mother-in-law for her faith in Jesus. However, through tearful prayers for her mother-in-law's soul and singing hymn “Yield not to Temptation,” she found comfort. One day, members of the church went to preach the gospel to her mother-in-law together. 'Grandma, believe in Jesus and come out to the church. Your daughter-in-law is praying for you with tears.' 'That's all just a show. I followed her secretly when she went to pray, and all she did was sing a song about overcoming me.' A surprised pastor asked her: 'What song was it?' 'Uh... something like... 'You, don't be discouraged by trials, gather your courage and overcome, gain new strength by overcoming trials~' (Internet). This anecdote brings a smile through the misunderstanding of praise by t...