THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus
“Spy Wednesday,” March 27, 2024

Lord, maybe Judas thought he could slip away unnoticed while you taught at the Temple. Since your triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Sunday, followed by clearing the Temple of the corrupt merchants on Monday, crowds pressed in around you, listening carefully to your teachings of the heavenly Father’s love as they had never heard before.

Judas must have thought you’d be so busy with the people he could disappear for a little while without raising suspicion. How foolish to think he could escape your attention. Along with the other disciples, Judas saw you heal the lame, give sight to the blind, even walk on water and calm a raging sea. And he didn’t think you wouldn’t miss him? Lord, you knew Judas’ nefarious agenda when went to meet with the religious leaders.

Lord, three years ago when you chose Judas to be one of your twelve inner circle disciples, you knew then what evil lay dormant within his heart. But you chose him anyway, for he was to play a pivotal role in the most prominent event in human history (John 17:12).

The leading priests and Pharisees couldn’t believe their luck. They had been looking for a way to secretly arrest you and be rid of you once for all. Satan dropped Judas into their laps, offering to betray Jesus into their hands. Betray the Creator of the Universe for thirty pieces of silver? Judas would sell the redeemer of his soul and who would give him eternal life for thirty pieces of silver? Depending on the size of the silver coins, it’s between $91 to $6000 in today’s dollar. Judas forfeited eternal life for his soul for such an insignificant sum. Evidently, he must have ignored your teaching: “What does a man profit if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his own soul,” (Luke 9:25).

No wonder this day is referred as “Dark Wednesday.” Some call this “Spy Wednesday”, aptly named after the disciple turned spy, Judas. But just wait till Sunday. Amen, Jesus.