John 13:21-38: Betrayal in Jerusalem
Holy Tuesday, April 4, 2023
One of you is going to betray me . . . [And] as soon as the bread was in Judas’ hand, Satan entered him.
We have become too familiar with the story of Judas Iscariot betraying Jesus the Christ. Today we focus on small details as we read various translations, watching Jesus as he firmly, boldly, patiently and even gently steps into the betrayal he knows awaits him.
What you must do, says Jesus, do. Do it and get it over with.
A crust of bread dipped in wine.
Judas, with the piece of bread, left. It was night.
Thirty pieces of silver. The Potter’s Field. Murder Meadow.
Children, I am with you for only a short time longer. You are going to look high and low for me. But just as I told the Jews, I’m telling you: ‘Where I go, you are not able to come.’
The prophet Jeremiah’s words fulfilled to the letter.
“Master,” says Peter, “why can’t I follow now? I’ll lay down my life for you!”
Denial in the courtyard.
“Really?” Jesus replies. “You’ll lay down your life for me? The truth is that before the rooster crows, you’ll deny me three times”.
The faithful disciples scattering in terror, gathering in hope.
Today we reflect on heroes, heroines, fidelity and betrayal and how Jesus, Judas and Peter bring us the message of the Gospel. For a video message from musician Matt Maher that reflects on the role of Judas in God’s plan, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnibI0Vac0w
Matthew 26 & Matthew 27 tell the story of Peter’s denial and Judas’ end. If there is time today, we reflect on these verses using the scripture links.
For more reflections on betrayal, enter the word into the blog search bar and explore.
Images from: http://rorate-caeli.blogspot.com/2015/03/damned-lies-on-destiny-of-judas-iscariot.html and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denial_of_Peter
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