The WORD in Other Words by Fr Lino Nicasio SVD (Philippines)
Wednesday in Holy Week
Isaiah 50:4-9a Matthew 26:14-25
Betrayal is one of the most painful tragedies of life. A spouse being unfaithful to the other, a close friend stabbing the other in the back, or a trusted business partner running away with common funds — painful, all and the like, very painful.
Now let‘s just imagine how our loving Savior felt when Judas betrayed Him. Now mind you: it was not a Pharisee or a hostile scribe or even a vengeful Sadducee that betrayed him. Rather, it was Judas, one of the Twelve, chosen by the Master Himself to be at His side like the others, and entrusted with the group‘s funds
But why did Judas betray such a loving Master? Some say it was for the money: others say Judas expected to serve a Conqueror—Messiah who would liberate Israel from the Romans. Maybe so, but one thing is sure: Judas never really loved the Lord, never developed a close personal relationship with Jesus. It was all pretense and utmost hypocrisy, and coldness to the ever available grace of the Savior.
Jesus was hurt by Judas‘ betrayal, and He would be too at our own. God forbid we ever betray Jesus for sin or anything. Rather let‘s come closer to our merciful Savior and strive with His grace to have a close personal and loving relationship with Him.
Remember: it‘s not worth betraying Jesus for anything. Just ask Judas.
Éditions Verbum Bible 
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