Journey to Easterনমুনা

Judas Betrays Jesus

When I look back on my life, I see a path littered with wrong choices and bad decisions. It was only after I made them that I saw the consequences. What I didn’t do often had a greater impact than what I did. If only I could take it back! I can’t undo it; I can’t change it. To apologise would sound thin and empty.

Judas committed the worst treachery. He betrayed his friend after sharing a meal with Him. And yet, even after seeing his wicked motives to their end, we can see Jesus’ love played out. He took the bread, blessed it, and broke it, and shared it with all the disciples at the Passover table. Including Judas. I wonder, what would have happened if Judas had gone back to Jesus, if he had fallen at the Saviour’s feet and repented?

Judas opened the door and stepped into his chosen darkness. He chose not to go back. He decided his crime was too great to return. Peter too sinned against Jesus. He denied even knowing Him, and yet Peter was forgiven. Why? He threw himself on Jesus’ mercy and confessed. Judas didn’t.

An old hymn puts it this way: ‘Coming home to Father’s arms of mercy, I am tired of sin’s deceptive way; I will humbly bow and plead for pardon, At His blessed feet I’ll weep and pray.’

Lord, I thank you that in all the wrong I have done, I can turn to you, my heart contrite, and in your grace and your mercy, find love and forgiveness. Amen.

Written by CHRIS PARFOOT