The betrayal is something that many of us have experienced. The hurt can last for many years, and it can even make us resistant to trust new people. The hurt lingers in such a way that it affects us so that people will notice. It can even damage our ability to move forward in our Christian life because so often it goes unresolved.
The one who betrayed us is often oblivious to our struggle. They move on while we are left to feel that strange feeling every time we meet. Still others justify what they did, and believe it is just our problem. Then there are the good natured friends who say “just forgive and move on.” However, there is a lack of justice in that, it leaves us unsatisfied, frustrated and even at times a bit angry. That anger is even turned towards God at times, why doesn’t He do something or appear to care?
This Sunday we will be looking at the betrayal of Jesus in John 18:1-11. Jesus knew full well that Judas would betray Him (Matthew 26:21). He declares this during the Passover supper. Yet, before this Jesus washes the feet of Judas, even after this betrayer has set everything in motion. I have wondered what was going through Jesus’ mind as He knew what this man was going to do would lead to His suffering.
In the midst of Jesus’ betrayal Peter grabs his sword and attacks one of the people coming to arrest his friend. Jesus’ response is so different to ours in these times. We read in John 18:11, “Jesus commanded Peter, “Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?” These words are powerful, hard to grasp and tough to apply.
Jesus understands our feeling not from a distance but from experience. Rejected by His family, unjustly beaten, at the moment He most needed them betrayed by His friends, and crucified while declared innocent. This Sunday we will explore this more, but take time to meditate on the words of Jesus above. If applied to your betrayal, how would they change your perspective?
living for an audience of ONE
Scott