Betrayal

 

The Spiritual Waiting Room

Betrayal

Silver   Kiss

Self-Examination   Reflection

Is It I Lord?

Acknowledgement

(Photo and poem by Kathy McNamara)

Scripture:   Matthew 26:25

At the Last Supper Jesus was talking to the apostles about one of them betraying Him.

Then Judas, His betrayer, said in reply, "Surely it is not I, Rabbi?"

Jesus responded and said, "You have said it."

Reflection

One of the most difficult experiences that we can face is a betrayal. All of our relationships are based on trust. When we have given that trust to someone and it is violated, it is crushing. We can wonder if we can ever trust someone again.

In our reading from Matthew, we hear Judas implying that he would not betray Jesus when we know that he has gone to the religious authorities and received thirty pieces of silver to do exactly that. We do not know the motivation of Judas. Was it the silver or could it have been some disappointment that Judas had with Jesus?

We do know that just a short time after his conversation with Jesus about betrayal, Judas pointed Him out to the crowd that he led with a kiss. That intimate sign of love and caring was turned upside down to become a sign of betrayal. 

This incident can lead us into our own self-examination. What do I do in my life to betray Jesus?

We can reflect on the times when we have not reached out to those in need, walked by a homeless person, did not call someone we know who was sick, or did not respect the gift of creation. Jesus gives us so many opportunities to show our commitment to Him and to the Gospel.

It can become easy for us to choose the path of the "silver". We can get involved in pursuing the material things in life. The desire for more comfort and more "toys" can lead us to betray what Jesus is asking us to do.

The question that Judas asks, "Is it I Lord?", is a great question for us to reflect on. Jesus is challenging all of us to be more compassionate and more involved in pursuing justice for those who are discriminated against and ignored. 

When we acknowledge our betrayals and choose a different path, Jesus will lead us to His Peace. It might seem to some that Jesus lost everything when He was betrayed by Judas. 

However, Jesus knew that loss in the eyes of some would lead to the ultimate gain because He was being faithful to God. Before His betrayal by Judas, Jesus prays to the Father and acknowledges that it is the will of the Father that He will follow.

When we overcome our betrayals, Jesus will fill us with His Love. We walk in His footsteps. We leave the silver behind. 

There is a better treasure!

1. Have you ever had an experience where someone betrayed you?

2. Why do we tend to betray Jesus?

3. How have you tried to overcome your actions that betray Jesus?

4. What help does Jesus offer us as we try to follow Him?

5. What do you see as you contemplate Kathy's photo?

(Scripture adaptation, reflection, and questions by John J. McNamara)