"BETRAYAL” - John 13:21-30 - (March 10, 2019 - 1st Sunday in Lent)

Grace Alone Online

Judas is known for his betrayal of Jesus. Accepting 30 pieces of silver to turn over Christ to the Jewish authorities for crucifixion betrayed the trust that he was given as treasurer of the disciples. At times, the tendency is to turn Judas into the victim. Jesus Christ Superstar does this; he is the main character at times. And even in our minds we may think, "Jesus knew that Judas was going to betray him" so we may be lead to believe that Judas had no other "option" in God's plan of salvation - that he was the scapegoat. In actuality, Judas is representative of all of humanity. He IS the Old Adam, emblematic of creation gone awry. His desires for personal gain, to move the revolution plot of the Messiah along (politically speaking), is something we all deal with. Realizing we have betrayed others, by whatever means, in order to have personal gain, it is difficult to turn back, admit it, seek restitution, and sometimes we just live with the pain; pain that for some turns into suicide. such was the case with Judas. Listen to Judas speak and see yourself in his words.

Dialogue written by Ted Schroeder. © 2016 Creative Communications for the Parish, 1564 Fencorp Dr., Fenton, MO 63026. 800-325-9414. www.creativecommunications.com. All rights reserved. Addendum message written by Rev. Gregory Klotz)