Matthew 26:1–5 draws us into the heart of the Gospel, where God’s eternal plan of redemption unfolds with breathtaking precision. From the dawn of creation, every sacrifice, every act of mercy, every prophecy pointed to this moment—the cross of Christ. Here, heaven’s purpose and human schemes intersect. The Lamb of God, chosen before the foundation of the world, walks willingly toward His appointed hour. While He speaks of the Passover and the mission for which He came, religious leaders plot in secret to destroy Him. Yet even their schemes serve the will of God, fulfilling a plan written in eternity.

Every shadow in Scripture—from the lamb slain in Eden to the blood on Israel’s doorposts—has been guiding us to this point. Every sacrifice whispered of the coming Savior. Now, in divine timing, the Passover Lamb prepares to offer Himself as the final, perfect sacrifice. High priest Caiaphas, motivated by fear and ambition, believes he controls events, but his words unknowingly echo God’s sovereign will: that one man should die for the people. Human plots become the pathway of mercy, and sin itself sets the stage for salvation.

This passage reveals the mystery and majesty of our faith: the darkest night in history became the dawn of eternal life. As Jesus walks willingly to the cross, we are reminded that no evil can thwart God’s purpose, no plot can undo His plan, and no sin can overcome His saving grace. The cross was never an accident—it was always the plan. How might understanding this divine orchestration deepen your trust in God, even amid the trials and schemes of life?