“Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver Him to you?” And they counted out to him thirty pieces of silver. So from that time he sought opportunity to betray Him” Matthew 26:14-16
The same Judas complained earlier when Mary poured the very expensive spikenard on Jesus’ head. “Why waste so much money? Doesn’t she know that the money used to buy this very expensive oil can be used to feed a multitude? In fact where was she when we were looking for money to feed the five thousand?”
First of all, this is the voice of a seemingly caring Judas and every other ‘Judas’ out there. That friend you thought cared about you was just a Judas all along and now you feel hurt, angry and betrayed.
Holy Wednesday also known as Spy Wednesday is a day that we remember with bittersweet emotion as it was the beginning of the great conspiracy that led to the death of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Jesus knew all along that His story would end with one of his close associates betraying Him - yet his story ended with a prayer for the forgiveness of everyone who was involved in killing him including Judas who for just 30 pieces silver had just betrayed a man who showed him nothing but love from the first day he met him.
Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. Luke 23:34a
Jesus, the first born of the begotten, has shown us the way to go.
In their ignorance, our friends hurt us not knowing that they bring sorrow upon themselves. We therefore must pray for them so that they may inherit the joy and peace that comes with sanctification.
Secondly, Jesus knew how this would play out. That Judas’ betrayal would end in Jesus being glorified. Yes, God works all things together for the good of those who love Him; those who are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). God is working out this betrayal for good. It will end with a loud hallelujah.