Tuesday of the Holy Week

Isaiah 49: 1-6      John 13: 21-33.36-38

Theme: “One of you will betray me”

In the gospel reading of today from St. John, Jesus gives his followers an insight into what awaits him, unfortunately they do not understand what Jesus meant. The scenario that plays out in today’s gospel reading, teaches us to be mindful of the things we desire in our heart, in whatever we do. Remember that Jesus was making this statement to his close companions, not to the generality of his followers. One would expect that the issue of betrayal should not come up at all, with those he sees as brothers and friends. Unfortunately, Judas allowed his greed to lead him into betraying his master. Have you asked yourself, why is it that among the twelve, it was Judas who betrayed his master? He already had a negative and criminal disposition because of his love for money, and the devil used it as a means through which he will accomplish his plan against Jesus. Even though Judas was among the best circle of people that anyone would desire, he still went ahead to commit a major mistake because of his greed and love of money.

Dear friends in Christ, one would expect that because Jesus told them about what was going to happen soon in his life, the fear that Jesus already knew would have stopped Judas from carrying out his plans. But all that did not stop him, he rather went ahead to plan with the people on how he will deliver Jesus to them. This is what happens when you allow love for money and greed to be your drive in your relationship with people. We must be mindful of this fact and be very careful, lest we end up regretting it just like Judas Iscariot at the end, but it was too late. The same way Jesus presented the situation to them before it happened is how he is still presenting it to all of us as followers of Christ in our own time, so we must be careful, so that we don’t repeat the same mistake that was made by Judas. Contentment would have saved Judas from this grave mistake that he made, and greed will have no place in his life.

Be happy and content with what you always have. Continue to work hard and trust in God, over time your heart desires will be granted. You don’t have to betray people to acquire wealth that is questionable. Put greed aside and be sincere with people in your human relationships and God will bless you at his own time. Everything in life has its time and season, be patient, your time will come.

May almighty God continue to strengthen us in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit, Amen. Peace be with you.