Jesus said, “My friend, go ahead and do what you have come for.” Then the others grabbed Jesus and arrested him. Matthew 26:50 NLT
I’ve been thinking a lot about Judas lately. I know this isn’t a popular sentiment, but Easter often brings out the melancholy in me. Plus, I think watching The Chosen has changed my perspective on lots of things. Maybe “changed” is the wrong word. Maybe it’s just that I’m gaining new insights into what the disciples may have been thinking. Into how Jesus interacted with those around Him. Into who Judas might have been.
What gets me every time, though, is that Jesus called Judas His friend.
His friend.
I don’t understand.
Jesus knew, even before the betrayal, what would happen. Yet still He chose Judas to be His friend. His confidant. One of His inner circle.
And none of the other disciples suspected Judas would betray Jesus. That he would be the one to hand Him, with a kiss, over to His killers.
As I think about Judas, I realize something about him.
He was either a friend of Jesus.
Or a great actor.
Or conflicted.
Or a mix of all of these.
As I think about Judas, I realize something else. I’m a lot like him.
Some days I’m surely a friend of Jesus. I talk to Him, walk with Him. Try to do what He says.
Other times, I put on my “faith face” and do what others expect of me. Perform for them. Hide what’s deep down.
Occasionally, I’m conflicted, as Judas must have been. Caught in the middle of knowing what is right and wrong, but still unsure how to move forward.
And surely, I’ve betrayed Jesus. Not just once, but over and over.
Yet, still He calls me back to Him. Still He forgives me. Still He calls me “friend.”
On the eve of this Good Friday, as we mourn the death of Jesus, I’m deeply saddened for Judas. His betrayal, yes, but also his despair as he must’ve realized the consequences of his greed and abandonment.
Yes, I’m saddened for Judas.
But I’m also saddened that Jesus had to die for someone like Judas. For someone like me.
I know there’s hope, though. Jesus didn’t stay in the grave. Thankfully, Jesus is alive. Sunday is coming. He did what He came for. I pray that you find the hope of Jesus this Easter season.
