If you are like me, there are some things that are inexplicable yet somehow bring comfort. Recently, the eclectic and eccentric actor Val Kilmer passed away at the age of 65. In an industry that often highlights youth, death seems far removed from the spotlight. Upon hearing of his passing, I immediately began recalling the various roles he played. A few of those roles landed him on my comfort movie list—those movies you can watch anytime, anywhere, and still feel a sense of comfort. There’s a soothing effect in watching a tried-and-true classic; you know the plot, and the lines that are delivered. Perhaps it grounds you to a simpler time or transports you to another place altogether.
It is intriguing that even action movies can provide this calming effect. This comfort stems from the predictability and repetitive aspects of experiences we have encountered before. Knowing what will happen before it happens allows for a deeper enjoyment of those moments, perhaps for the hundredth time. This is true for movies, songs, books—these artistic mediums comfort us in seemingly unique ways.
During the week leading up to the commemoration of Jesus’ resurrection, I have grown fond of reading the gospel accounts of Jesus’ last week. This may seem bizarre as they are tied to painful realities, but there is comfort in rereading the narrative and anticipating what will happen—recalling the lines and being humbled by Jesus’ character. I particularly love John’s account, as he reminds his readers in John 18:1-11.
John 18:1-11 “When Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples across the brook Kidron, where there was a garden, which he and his disciples entered. 2 Now Judas, who betrayed him, also knew the place, for Jesus often met there with his disciples. 3 So Judas, having procured a band of soldiers and some officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, went there with lanterns and torches and weapons. 4 Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them, ‘Whom do you seek?’ 5 They answered him, ‘Jesus of Nazareth.’ Jesus said to them, ‘I am he.’ Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them. 6 When Jesus said to them, ‘I am he,’ they drew back and fell to the ground. 7 So he asked them again, ‘Whom do you seek?’ And they said, ‘Jesus of Nazareth.’ 8 Jesus answered, ‘I told you that I am he. So, if you seek me, let these men go.’ 9 This was to fulfill the word that he had spoken: ‘Of those whom you gave me I have lost not one.’ 10 Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant and cut off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.) 11 So Jesus said to Peter, ‘Put your sword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?’”
As tragic as the betrayal is, I love seeing the heart of Jesus. He is bold and courageous as he addresses the approaching mob, asking them, “Whom do you seek?” I wonder, “Would I be brave enough to confront a hostile crowd and press them for information?” Jesus resolutely responds that he is the one they seek by affirming, “I am.” This statement not only highlights his unique position but also his divine character. His confident declaration causes his accusers to fall back to the ground. He offers his life in exchange for his disciples, negotiating for their release, which foreshadows his sacrificial purpose for the world. He accepts his fate with determination, rebuking Peter and embracing his calling.
I can’t help but read this and feel reassurance. I know what will happen, and I experience sorrow over the pain and suffering that Jesus will endure on the cross. However, I also find solace in witnessing my Savior’s character and actions. I see his purpose clearly conveyed in the midst of tense situations; despite the sadness, there is also boldness, determination, and care. When I read these passages, I am overwhelmed by many emotions, but the predominant one is comfort.