DAY 4 - APR 5

PREPARATION

For one minute, take deep breaths and stay silent. Breathe out the cares of the day upon the Lord. Breathe in the peace of God.

PRAYER

Our Father in heaven, 

You are holy and above all,

Bring your kingdom in me, through me, and around me today,

May your good will come today just like heaven,

Give me simply what I need for today,

Forgive my sins as I forgive those who have sinned against me,

Lead me away from temptation and protect me from the evil one,

To you alone receive the power, glory, and honor forever. Amen. 

SCRIPTURE READING: Matthew 26:14-16

COMMENTARY

In Christian tradition, Wednesday of Holy Week is dark. As Jesus entered Jerusalem, healed the sick, cleansed the temple, and taught parables, the enemy was working behind the scenes. The chief priests and elders were looking for a way to arrest Jesus without creating an uproar (Matthew 26:4). On this day it is important to meditate on the man at the center of the story: Judas Iscariot. Judas was a human being like you and me, but he was also special. He was specifically called by Jesus to be one of his twelve disciples. These twelve slept, ate, walked, and did everything with Jesus. The twelve, including Judas, were also sent out and proclaimed the kingdom of God, healed, and casted out demons (Matthew 10:8).

Judas’ importance to the group and Jesus is clear as he was the treasurer for Jesus’ ministry (John 12:6). His importance to Jesus is also seen in the Last Supper as he most likely sat near Jesus (John 13:26). Scholars believe that Judas Iscariot’s Judean heritage could have led him to jealousy amongst the other eleven disciples who were Galilean. Whether it was gradual envy, bitterness towards Jesus’ humble posture as Messiah, or an overcoming love for money, Judas’ betrayal of Jesus is heart-wrenching. The tension between the darkness of his heart and his incredible nearness to the Light (Jesus), is what we reflect upon today. It is shocking to see how corrupt roots in one’s heart can lead to the betrayal of the very One who would eventually provide a new heart (Ezekiel 1:19-20).

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

- Inward: If I am honest, is there any bitterness that I hold towards Jesus today? Speak honestly with Jesus about this knowing he already is aware of your angst. 

- Outward: Is there anyone you know who seems to be closed off towards Jesus because of unmet expectations? Pray for them to have an intimate encounter with God today.

KIDS REFLECTION QUESTIONS

- What do you think it felt like for Jesus to be betrayed by one of his best friends?

- How can you express your love to Jesus today?

PROMISE
“All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God’s paths to follow our own. Yet the Lord laid on him the sins of us all.” – Isaiah 53:6

PRAYER
Jesus, thank you for your love for me today.

May I receive your love as I go about my daily tasks.

May I submit to your kingship as I walk in your kingdom.

May I be filled with your Spirit as I follow you.

May your kingdom come and will be done in my life today.