We see a scene full of mixed emotions; love vs betrayal, grace vs human freedom, positive courage vs failure through betrayal of the one I promise to love. Even Jesus knowing his hour was near and what was to happen does not give in to abandon the humanity. We have many times looked on the betrayal part of Judas which lack personal choice of return due to excess despair and Peter’s betrayal that antithetically to Judas does not end on remorse but on the Mercy of loving Jesus and so Peter chooses repentance and reformation.
Humanity Redeemed
It is a moving scene where Jesus at this point knows the mission has to be accomplished. The redemption of humanity has to happen. The mixture of remorse in his words tells the weight of human fear for he knew all what was to happen. Yet he even unfolds it to his disciples. As we heard in the first reading Jesus bears the whole Israelites, the whole nation of all believers only for one purpose which was coined from his birth even by his name which means God saves, and so he was prepared for glorification. The glorification which ironically is through the cross as Isaiah says, “I am made glorious in the sight of the Lord!” At the crucifixion Jesus acts of Love is rewarded by the Father through resurrection three days later.
The Ultimate Act of Love
Let's us imagine and reflect on the love of Jesus to us, even knowing the pain, the betrayer, he chooses to go on. This really affirms the words of prophet Isaiah 53:7, “Like a lamb he was led to slaughter,” and his obedience to the Father until the point of his death (Phil 2:8). This is the ultimate humility and love.
The act of dipping the morsel and sharing with Judas is sign of love of Jesus to the sinner. He continually seeks the return of the lost even at the point of last choice. The love that is not measured by anything. The statement the Satan entered can be interpreted as the choice of Judas not to return to Jesus even after receiving the ultimate love. This is representation of deliberate refusal to reform and believe yet Jesus is always giving opportunity to return. It is a choice of personal condemnation. The refusal of grace in a person and so one chooses the path of Satan. But look at the love of Jesus. Jesus challenges us on how we deal with those who betray us. Jesus gives us a new format; love conquers all.
Learning From Our Mistakes
Jesus deliberately chooses to die the reason he tells Judas to leave. This stresses what he told people, “No one can take my life unless I chose to lay it down (Jn 10:18). He has also seen that Judas' malice cannot be revoked, so it is better that he accomplishes his mission of betrayal. As we come near to easter triduum let us reflect on:
a. What are ways that I do betray the love of Jesus.
b. I am disposed to understand the immense love of Jesus to me as a believer?
c. How do I treat those who betray me? Especially deliberately hurting me
- Today’s Readings
- Father Joachim’s inspirational homily was recorded live during Mass at the Father Peyton Center today. You can watch the entire Mass on the Family Rosary Video streams channel on YouTube.
- Join the Rosary (11:30 am ET) and Mass (Noon ET) livestreams on the Family Rosary YouTube or Facebook page, Monday – Friday. Invite your friends and family to pray with you as well.
