Devotion for Holy Monday 14/04/2025

John 18:1 (NIV)

When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side, there was a garden, and he and his disciples went into it.

The first verse of Chapter 18 sets the stage for Jesus's Passion narrative in the final week. In Chapter 17, Jesus had a long and profound prayer—often called the High Priestly prayer—on behalf of Himself, Unity among the apostles, and future believers.

As the main stage for the next stage of the passion narrative is the Garden of Gethsemane, there was a little place's name mentioned here with deep significance. This is none other than the “Kidron Valley” (Brook Kidron in NKJV).

But there’s more to this phrase than meets the eye. It’s the tip of a biblical and theological iceberg that holds tremendous significance.

Very often, there is more to the text than meets the eye! When we take the time to dig into God’s Word, we will discover a treasure trove of truth that will enrich and encourage us.

Firstly, the Kidron Valley is a significant geographical location east of Jerusalem, separating the city from the Mount of Olives. Historically, it was a place associated with mourning and judgment (2 Sam 15:23, Jer 31:40). Crossing the Kidron Valley symbolises Jesus' journey towards His impending suffering and sacrifice. The valley's mention also connects to King David's flight from Absalom, drawing a parallel between David's betrayal and Jesus' forthcoming betrayal by Judas.

There’s one more thing we should know about the Kidron Valley. During the yearly Passover, hundreds, if not thousands, of lambs would have been sacrificed on the altar of the Temple. This would have produced massive amounts of blood that had to be drained from the temple courtyard, along with all the water from the ritual cleansings.

Where did all that blood and water go? To the Kidron Valley just outside the Temple walls!

So, we can picture the scene, as Jesus walked across the Kidron valley that evening, water and blood would flow through the valley. To the disciples, it would not be noticed or evoke any emotion. However, to the Lord Jesus, this is a clear sign of the water and blood that flows from his own body as he was pierced for our transgressions in the hours to come! I wonder what was going through the mind of Christ at that instant.

John’s gospel is unique in that it has all the subtle details that give us a better picture of the inner turmoil of the Lord in his last few moments on earth. John the apostle was also emphatically showing us that Jesus was indeed the Lamb of God.

In John chapter 1, John the Baptist prophesied at least twice that Jesus was indeed the Lamb of God.

a) The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29 NIV)

b) The next day, John was there again with two of his disciples. "When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!” (John 1:35-36)

Let us be thankful for the ultimate sacrifice of the one and only “Lamb of God” who takes away the sin of the world. We now have free access and full acceptance by the Father in Heaven. What a privilege and what a blessing indeed.

“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." (Hebrews 4:12 NIV)

May the Lord bless you and keep you in this Holy Week. Have a blessed Monday!