Navigating Griefنموونە

The Grief of Betrayal

The story of Judas in the Bible is a prime example of betrayal. Judas was one of the twelve chosen apostles, after all. He lived, ate, and traveled with Jesus and the other eleven apostles. Judas was entrusted with the purse to provide Jesus and the apostles with food and lodging. He witnessed Jesus's miracles, yet he betrayed Him with a kiss.

Judas is an emblem of betrayal, and today, his name is used derogatorily to insult someone considered untrustworthy.

Betrayal hurts deeply, especially for men who can find it challenging to trust others easily. How do you feel when you discover that a friend or family member is talking behind your back? It feels like the wind is taken out of your sails.

Our initial reaction is to close ourselves off and vow never to trust anyone again, which is understandable, but is that what God wants from us?

When Peter asked Jesus if he should forgive his brother seven times, Jesus responded that he should forgive seventy-seven times (Matthew 18:21-22). We need to forgive even when we are betrayed.

Don’t forget, brothers: our Lord knows betrayal. He was betrayed by Judas, Peter, and many other followers who went into hiding when Jesus was arrested. Not one of His disciples stood by His side (Matthew 26:56). But what did Jesus do? He forgave all of them and reconciled with them after the resurrection (John 21).

Jesus does not keep score and will always forgive us if we confess our weaknesses with a sincere heart. Psalm 103:12 states: "As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.”

Pray to God for restoring relationships that have been broken by betrayal. God can heal the broken trust and reconcile brothers to each other. It starts with a prayer and taking the first step towards reconciliation.

Prayer: Father, we are designed for community and to live in peace and harmony with one another. Please help us to forgive and forget betrayals and work towards reconciliation. Amen.

Reflection: Is there a brother who betrayed you who needs your forgiveness? What does taking a step towards him look like today?