They paid him thirty pieces of silver, and from that time on he kept looking for an opportunity to hand him over.
Matthew 26:15-16
Acts of betrayal are an indication of lack of appreciation for unconditional love it would seem. As we examine Judas’s motives, a sense of sorrow fills our hearts in realization of his rejection of our Lord’s great love him.
St. Julian of Norwich, a 14th century anchoress experienced mysticl visions of our Lord where His love figured prominently:
“Our good Lord showed a spiritual sight of His familiar love. I saw that he is to us everything which is good and comforting for our help. He is our clothing who wraps and enfolds us for love, which is so tender that he may never desert us.”
How unseemly that Judas did not acknowledge our Lord’s great gift of love and went forward to betray Him!
Part of the human condition is reveal some negative behaviors and we must pray for the Lord’s grace to help us be more loving, trustworthy and to made worthy of Him who sacrificed His life for us.
I can recall a time when I was in High School and betrayed my family by not attending school, but rather staying over at a friend’s house seduced by the offer of having fun. I did not anticipate that the Headmistress, Sister Theresa Miriam would phone my parents about my absence!
Following my young friend’s directive was an act of great cost to my conscience and reputation with my family. Not only did I experience guilt and punishment, but also missed out on a vital day attending classes.
My family made sacrifices for me to obtain a good education by paying tuition. I had completely lost my sense of gratitude for them and their sacrifices on my behalf. Like Judas, I disconnected from the ability to act honorably.
Let us this Holy week, embrace our Lord’s love towards us and cultivate a spirit of gratitude as we remember that He surrounds us with love as St. Julian teaches us.
Amen+
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