Reflect on the betrayal of Jesus by Judas and Peter's redemption, exploring our own tendencies to sin and the hope for God's mercy.
Today's Gospel: John 13:21-33, 36-38
It’s a part of the Gospel that leaves me heartbroken.
Just the thought of anyone betraying Jesus fills me with alarm. How could Judas possibly do it? After spending so much time with the Messiah, what could lead an apostle to turn rogue?
Growing up, I saw Judas as the ultimate villain. Trading Jesus for thirty pieces of silver? Absolutely revolting. That Judas would take an action that would lead to Christ’s Passion and death seemed so bizarre.
It was only later in my life that I realized that, inexplicably, there have been times when I have mirrored Judas’ faithlessness. When I turned to sin rather than to Jesus. When I allowed work to hold pride of place in my life rather than the Lord. When I allowed my temper to get the best of me.
It is hard to accept my Judas-like tendencies, but they lie deep within me. They are part and parcel of my makeup and prevailing against them is a constant struggle only made possible through the grace of God.
Still, hope springs eternal. Even our first pope, Peter, denied Jesus three times. Unlike Judas, he would come to weep bitterly over his betrayal of the Lord. He regretted it so much that he would be crucified upside down because he believed he did not deserve to die as Jesus had.
Peter sought redemption; Judas settled for death. It’s a lesson that is before my eyes always. I am a sinner, but I can, like Peter, ask for God’s mercy. The Lord’s love is so great that He is willing to take me back into His arms—again and again.
It is comforting to know that our God is so forgiving, even when the offense is heartbreaking. Our trust in Him can set us free.
Ponder:
In what ways have I fallen short this week in my relationship with Jesus?
Pray:
Dear Jesus, so many times I have failed You by turning to sin rather than to You. Pour out Your grace, and heal my broken soul.
Pray Together:
As a family, ask Jesus to help you to overcome persistent sin.
Copyright 2026 Maria V. Gallagher
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