Daily Gospel Reflection for March 30, 2021

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Kathy Mallery Schober

Today's Gospel: John 13:21-33, 36-38

Christ’s Passion is growing ever nearer. He gathers for the Passover with His disciples. He washes their feet, teaching them again about love and service. It is at this time that we hear Jesus, deeply troubled, say to his closest friends, “One of you will betray me.”

God the Son humbled Himself to be born as one of us. To show us how to live and love. And He is about to be betrayed by one who is closest to Him.

We have all been betrayed, but to be betrayed by someone who knows our hearts? By someone we share our most candid, honest thoughts and activities? Someone for whom we pour out our love? Hopefully, most of us do not know that level of hurt and betrayal.

Judas "sells" Jesus. And Jesus knows it is about to happen.

I have heard that there is a painting showing Jesus with six wounds: the five of the crucifixion and a wounded cheek where Judas kissed Him. Imagining that, the wound on Jesus cheek seems not to be solely from Judas, but, as with the other wounds, inflicted by us all. Inflicted by our sin.

And then there is Peter. In his enthusiasm and love, Peter claims he will lay down his life for Jesus. In response, Jesus tells Peter that he too will betray Jesus, denying Him three times before dawn.

Like Peter, we also betray Jesus with our words, our actions and our omissions, even with the best of intentions. These are heavy realizations. Almost overwhelming. But there is hope. Like with Judas and Peter, Jesus knows us and yet He loves us. Loves us enough to sacrifice Himself for us.

May we, like Peter, not despair, but accept the reconciliation and redemption that Jesus offers to us.

Ponder:

What are some ways that I have "sold" or denied Jesus?

Pray:

Precious Jesus, my Friend and Savior, through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, daily reveal my sin to me. Then, fill me with love and courage so that I may turn from my sin and run recklessly into our Father’s open arms of mercy, embracing hope rather than despair.

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May we, like Peter, not despair, but accept the reconciliation and redemption that Jesus offers to us. #dailygospel

Copyright 2021 Kathy Mallery Schober

Kathy Mallery Schober directs Faith Formation, has been catechizing for over 25 years, and holds a graduate degree in education. As a public speaker and educator, she has earned awards for her work with families and children. Reaching families in the midst of our pandemic, Kathy Mallery Schober created the “Domestic Church” channel. She also shares reflections on “8th Station”.