The Gospel proclamation reveals the inner turmoil of the Lord. The anguish in His deeply troubled heart, when He says” one of you will betray Me “. He knew from the start who it would be. He would have remembered Psalm 41; “ Even the friend who had my trust, shared my table has scorned Me” (v 10). Judas was said to be a close friend of the Lord, “ Yet scripture had to be fulfilled. The one who ate my food has raised his heel against Me. (Jn13/18).

Did the Lord not try to save Judas by giving sufficient grace to help himself? Yes, He did, even up to the last moment; washing Judas’s feet and kissing it. Showing love and honor by giving the morsel from His own hands, a sign of special favour according to Middle Eastern custom.

All to often we think God works only when relationships are harmonious, yet most of His plans are realized in and through turmoil, brought on by rejections we endure. At times we want to be in complete control. Yet , God sees the bigger picture, even when we lose control. We must never be afraid to let the Lord steer our course. Every unsettling of life, every disastrous situation and hopeless condition cannot hinder the plan of God. We on our part should not get discouraged or bitter, lest we hurt ourselves. In our relationships at home or community it is very hard to accept rejection or betrayal, especially when that person had been very close to us. However, that same Spirit of Jesus that loved Judas to the very end is now given to us. Therefore,” Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God with which you were sealed for the day of redemption. All bitterness, fury, anger and reviling must be removed from you, along with all malice; be kind, forgiving one another as God has forgiven you in Christ” (Eph 4/39-32).

Let’s use that barometer to discern any bitterness in our hearts. Is there anger towards anyone or maybe entertaining and remembering the details? If so let us give that truth to the Lord, for whom the Son sets free shall be free indeed.

Prayer: Abba Father, thank you for the freedom to forgive and freedom in forgiveness.Amen