Matthew 26:17-25 The Passover with the Disciples

The Passover is a Jewish feast celebrating the liberation of Israel, God's people, from Egypt, the land of slavery. Specifically, it alludes to the night in which the firstborn children of the Israelites were spared because they put the lamb's blood on their doorposts. Death passed over their houses and caused no harm to their firstborns. Jesus gets ready to celebrate this feast with his disciples. It must've been an occasion with mixed feelings. On the one hand, it was a joyous occasion because Jesus is the lamb to offer his blood for the redemption of mankind. On the other hand, the price for that redemption is his life and before then, his betrayal.

Judas had been with the Lord for over three years now. He walked with him. He witnessed his miracles. He heard his teachings. But more than that, Judas experienced the intimate fellowship that few human beings have experienced with the Lord. Jesus loved him and cared for him. But it was Judas who sold Jesus out for thirty pieces of silver and the Lord knows it. Yet he continues to love him and care for him, but it must have broken his heart.

Betrayal is a breach in trust of such magnitude that it seems nothing can repair it. But the love of Jesus never stopped flowing towards Judas. The pain and the agony his betrayal caused Jesus was used for a great purpose. Unfortunately, Judas' end was not glamorous. Why is it that some people cling to the Lord and others don't? Ultimately, the answer is in the hands of a Sovereign God. Can I trust him? Can I trust his purposes?

I have betrayed my Lord plenty of times. The pain and the suffering I have caused cannot be measured. But the love of God has reached my heart and filled me to overflowing, forgiving my past and giving me hope for a better future. Many have betrayed me as well. Will I continue to love? Will I forgive? Will I pray that God will reach them with the same hope that is in my heart?

Lord, I pray that you fill me with love and compassion for those who betray me so I may forgive. Thank you for your forgiveness as my betrayal caused you much pain. May your mercy and benevolence flow through me unto others.