Tuesday 30th March 2021. Read Isaiah 49:1-6, Psalm 71 and John 13:21-38
“So, after receiving the morsel, he immediately went out; and it was night. When he had gone out, Jesus said, ‘Now is the Son of man glorified, and in him God is glorified.’” (John 13:30-31)
One thing that is so clear from today’s Gospel passage is that God sees our hearts. Jesus said, “One of you will betray me.” Judas ought to have asked himself: “How did he know?” He did not realize this was his last chance. He joined in the chorus of denials. “Is it I, Master?”
John tells that as soon as Judas ate the morsel of bread, Satan entered him, meaning that his mind was made up. He had chosen money over God. He had literally bowed to Satan for the glories of the world. Indeed, there is no amount of worldly riches that can satisfy us; the more you get, the more you crave. Judas had been helping himself all along with the moneybag but it just wasn’t enough. He couldn’t resist the temptation of an extra 30 pieces of silver.
The moment Judas walked out, Jesus knew exactly what would happen next. Instead of crying over the lashes, blows and insults, Jesus decided to focus on the brighter side: “Now, the Son of Man is glorified and in him, God is glorified.” Jesus remained positive. He wasn’t bitter because he considered the glory awaiting him.
Jesus told his disciples that he was going somewhere but they could not come immediately. Peter began to boast: “I will lay down my life for you.” It was only after the cock crowed that Peter remembered what Jesus predicted. Talk is cheap. Have you made vows to God in the past? Do not let your actions betray your words.
Dear friends, there is always the last chance to repent, the last chance to reconsider and to retrace your steps. Judas had his last chance when Jesus only declared that one of them would betray him. You never can tell if this is your last chance. If you choose not to repent today, you might never get this opportunity again. In truth, great battles are won by very small victories.
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, teach me to re-write my destiny by making the right choices. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you.