The Stumbling Stone
Throughout the Gospel of Matthew Jesus has been boldly proclaiming and living out the kingdom of God. Lies, slander, and the attacks of enemies have had little effect on His ministry, and the disciples, though often mistaken and immature, have stuck with Him. This is about to change; all will be made to stumble this night. We see that Jesus is a stumbling stone not just to His enemies, but to those who love Him. And as He nears the cross and feels death bearing down, He falls on His face, asking God to let this cup pass. But it can’t and so He trusts the Father to restore Him.