Today’s reading is a familiar one - the story of the Last Supper has been told many times.  In this particular version, the apostle who is to betray Him is clear as Jesus hands the dipped morsel to Judas.  The idea of betrayal by Judas is so well accepted as deserving the worse of possible punishment, Dante puts Judas is the lowest level of the Inferno experiencing the most severe torment.  The term, kiss of Judas, is one I remember from childhood.  But even then I was confused about the betrayal. Certainly I understand that betrayal is a bad thing.  Yet I always wondered since it was predestined that Jesus would be betrayed, how could Judas do anything else? I have read differing views on the motivation of Judas.  Was this all about greed - selling out your leader and consequently your soul for 30 pieces of silver? Was it about covering up your own corruption in handling of the funds for which you were responsible?  Did he have a choice?  Did Satan “enter him” and compel him to this act?  Was Judas disappointed in that he felt that Jesus was not fulfilling what he had hoped? What if Judas did not betray Jesus?  How would what was destined have happened?

The denial by Peter was also foretold at the Last Supper.  This also was a form of betrayal yet we see such a different outcome for Peter.  He is remorseful for his actions and weeps bitterly. Later when Jesus is risen, He asks Peter if he loves Him.  Jesus asks this of Peter three times and Peter, of course, answers that he does indeed love Him.  Peter is forgiven!  After Judas betrays Jesus, he, too, is filled with remorse.  Yet his fate is different - his remorse leads him to commit suicide.  While I may have hesitancy as to whether Satan had entered him before, I truly believe he entered Judas then to take his own life.  Had Judas not committed suicide and instead asked the risen Christ for forgiveness, would it have been granted?  Jesus forgives our many betrayals, I believe He would have forgiven Judas and saved his soul. 

We are all beloved children of Christ yet none among us are without sin/betrayal.  So many times the ways of the world tempt us into a betrayal of our beliefs. Our true remorse and asking for forgiveness is heard over and over again.  Our prays are answered although not always in the way that we want or expect.  Rather in the way that is necessary. Our limited views of the world and worldly things prevents us from seeing the bigger picture.

What is our purpose and how do we live it?  What hope is there for us in this blighted world?

PRAY!  Our greatest weapon against evil is prayer. Our humble acknowledgement of our own shortcomings and prayers for strength and understanding are key.  The following quote has been attributed to St Augustine and sums it up nicely:

       Pray as though everything depended on God.  

       Work as though everything depended on you 

Matthew West provides us with sound advice in one of his newest songs: Don't Stop Praying