Betrayed By A Judas?

A few days before Jesus death he dined at the house of his friends: Lazarus, Mary and Martha. Dinner done and conversation flowing, Mary poured a jar of expensive perfume on Jesus’ feet and wiped them with her hair, preparing Him for his burial. Judas was irate – his eyes saw money being poured out on the floor – and greed swelled up in him (Matt 26, Mrk 14, John 12). Jesus shushed him, defending Mary’s actions. Perhaps this left Judas feeling humiliated, stirring his anger and greed to a new level.

Judas let the seeds of greed and irritation stew inside of him overnight – providing fertile soil for the enemy to sprout a plan of betrayal in his mind (John 13:2). With this mindset Judas attended the Passover meal with the rest of the disciples and Jesus. He was present at Jesus’ foot washing ceremony, watching as the Savior removed Judas own sandals, tenderly washing and drying his feet. But Jesus humble example of servanthood didn’t soften Judas’ heart or bring repentance.

As the meal began Jesus handed Judas a piece of bread - then satan entered into Judas. “If you are intent on this,” Jesus said, looking into Judas’ eyes, “Do it now. I Am ready.” Then Judas and satan left the table and presented themselves to the Chief Priests for the formal betrayal of Jesus Christ.

The one who Jesus broke bread with, the one who participated in Jesus foot washing, the one who handled the ministry’s finances – was the one who turned his face from Jesus for a few small coins, and later, the one who kissed his cheek in the Garden of Gethsemane. But note how Jesus wasn’t shaken. Note how He kept His focus on God and what God had given Him to do. Note how He saw it coming and gave every opportunity to the betrayer to turn from his wickedness without condemning him.

If you have been betrayed it’s time for you to move on. It’s time to carry on with God’s work and put it behind you. It’s time to extend the forgiveness of God and put away condemnation. And perhaps it’s time to consider that God may be using the betrayal to move you forward in His purposes – taking a painful situation and turning it for His good.

Forward in Christ!