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 ...
Those who serve together [Romans 16:21-23] Dr. Paul J. Meyer, whose life goal was to earn tens of millions of dollars and share all that money, as a millionaire who proved 'God gives more to those who give', wrote a book titled “25 Keys for Success” (Internet). In the book, Dr. Meyer, deals with the topic of 'heritage' based on Christian insight. In this book, which is a compilation of 50 years of faith and practice know-how, heritage includes everything we do, say, think, and plan. And he is asking in what form to leave a legacy that anyone can choose and nurture to future generations. Ultimately, it is a book that not only motivates useful methodologies to leave a good legacy, but also serves as a valuable guideline for those who want to live a spiritually rich life. Saying 'serving is good business', it offers seven guidelines for service: (1) Provide, (2) Protect, (3) Respect, (4) Trust, (5) Suggest d...