The traitor, Judas, had given [the armed men] a prearranged signal: “You will know which one to arrest when I greet him with a kiss. Then you can take him away under guard.” As soon as they arrived, Judas walked up to Jesus. “Rabbi!” he exclaimed, and gave him the kiss.
Then the others grabbed Jesus and arrested him.
Key Thought
How sadly ironic! With a kiss, Judas betrays the one who loves him most. For everyone whose heart has been broken by someone he or she loves, Judas’ act is a great reminder that Jesus knows those deep feelings of betrayal and loss. Here is a Savior in whom we can confide. He knows our dashed hopes and our broken hearts. He promises to strengthen us and be with us in our dark hours of need. Most of all, he promises to dry every single tear from our eyes and welcome us home.
Today’s Prayer
Father in heaven, betrayal by someone we love is such a deep and cutting wound that many of us on your small blue planet never recover. Thank you for reminding us — reminding me — that Jesus knows this deep bitter sorrow firsthand and can help us in our time of need. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
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