Mosaiek Church Lent 2025: Jesus' Questions in Sufferingනියැදිය

When Judas, who had betrayed him, realized that Jesus had been condemned to die, he was filled with remorse. So he took the thirty pieces of silver back to the leading priests and the elders. “I have sinned,” he declared, “for I have betrayed an innocent man.”

-MATT. 27:3-4 (NIV)

People have long debated Judas’ motive for betraying Jesus. My temptation during Lent is to condemn Judas as a villain and quickly move past this difficult part of the story – on the way to Resurrection and the promise of the empty tomb.

Not so fast.

We do not get to the Resurrection without getting through this most difficult part of the story: the tragedy of brokenness and the deep dependence on the Lord’s grace in each of us.

We know that Jesus chose Judas and that Judas left everything to follow Him. When Jesus spoke of the one who would betray Him, Judas was not an obvious suspect. He was in Jesus’ inner circle. He was clearly loved by Jesus and the other disciples. It makes me realise that any devoted follower of Jesus was capable of betraying Him. It invites me to go into my own brokenness and my own heart. Judas’ actions can play out in my actions too.

Writing Judas off as a villain prevents me from examining my own heart—the parts where I so desperately need His forgiveness and grace. Overwhelmed by guilt and grief, Judas ultimately failed to know the hope and light of the Resurrection. What he failed to realise is that no matter the extent of betrayal, sin, or brokenness, God’s grace always triumphs.

Reflection: What motives of my heart do I avoid bringing to the Lord?

Prayer: I ask for the grace to become aware of my shortcomings and receive Your forgiveness for them.