Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So, they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over. Matthew 26: 14-16

We read about Judas and cringe at the thought of His betrayal. It makes us angry to consider what was done for pieces of silver! How could he hand over Jesus and demonstrate this type of sin and greed? 

“Judas had flaws and we need to learn from them.” We mustn’t turn our backs on Jesus or excuse what is leading us away from the Father. We must guard our minds from selfish desires and open our hearts to understand we ALL sin and fall short of the glory of God. 

This is a perfect season to understand forgiveness and reflect on what Christ has done for us. We are covered by mercy and grace.  We don’t have to be slaves to shame. We can pray and ask God to help us.   

None of us are deserving, but Jesus calls us worthy. He leads us in the right direction and asks us to follow Him. He fixes what is broken and helps us walk closer to the Father’s LOVE.  

Every step we take with Jesus will fill us with compassion and love. We must surrender and TRUST. “Our souls are worth more than thirty pieces of whatever Satan is trying to sell us.” May we keep our eyes focused on the One who came to save and never forget ALL He has done to show His LOVE for each one of us.   

Dear God, thank you for HOPE that is found in precious Jesus! Thank you for His sacrifice for EACH one of us. Humble our hearts to understand forgiveness. Help us LOVE one another and share the LOVE of Christ. As we draw closer to YOU, cover our wounds with mercy and grace. Help us remember Jesus suffered the pain of our shame so we will live with YOU forever. Let this be a time of renewal as we prepare to welcome our risen Lord. Thank you for Your LOVE for us! Amen