Holy Wednesday

So this one didn’t take two years to write…look at me go!

As we journey through Holy Week, each day holds profound significance in the Christian narrative leading up to Easter Sunday, right?…right?

Much like Tuesday, I don’t think I’ve ever attended a Holy Week service particular to Wednesday. So I did some digging, and one of the traditions around this day is “Spy Wednesday.” Sounds like a great movie, right?

Actually, Spy Wednesday, is a day marked by the bitter sting of betrayal. In the Gospel accounts, this day stands as a stark reminder of the human frailty and the depth of Jesus’ sacrificial love.

Holy Wednesday is distinguished by the betrayal of Jesus by one of his closest companions, Judas Iscariot. For thirty pieces of silver, Judas agreed to hand Jesus over to the religious authorities, setting in motion the events that would culminate in crucifixion.

Reflecting on this betrayal brings to mind a haunting visit to the Church of All Nations in Jerusalem, situated in the Garden of Gethsemane. The ambiance of solitude within its walls, coupled with vivid frescoes depicting biblical scenes, particularly struck me. Among them, a painting portraying Judas’ betrayal gripped my attention.

The scene looks as if all hell is about to break loose…and that would be true. Yet what captivated me most was the poignant mix of sadness and determination in Jesus’ eyes. On this day, we remember Judas’ conscious decision to betray his Rabbi, the man he had journeyed with for three years and once revered as the awaited Messiah.

The very notion of betrayal strikes at the core of human nature – the capacity for treachery, greed, and moral weakness.

The story of Judas serves as a mirror to our own lives, prompting us to examine the ways in which we may betray the trust of others or turn away from the path of righteousness. It compels us to confront uncomfortable truths about our own vulnerabilities to temptation and sin.

Yet, amidst the darkness of betrayal, there shines a beacon of hope – the determination on the face of Jesus I mentioned before.

In the face of betrayal, Jesus remained resolute in his mission. He did not retaliate with bitterness or vengeance but met betrayal with grace and forgiveness. His response serves as a powerful example of love triumphing over evil. It is a love that knows no bounds, a love that willingly lays down its life for the sake of others.

As we lean deeper into this Holy Week, take time to examine your own heart. Are there areas of your life where you have betrayed the trust of others? Have you allowed greed, pride, or selfishness to sit in the driver’s seat?

But also be reminded of the hope that springs forth from the darkness of betrayal. Through Jesus’ sacrificial love, even our most grievous sins can be redeemed and forgiven. As we journey towards the cross this Holy Week, may we be ever mindful of the immense love that led Jesus to lay down his life for us, and may it inspire us to live lives marked by faithfulness, integrity, and love.

In the midst of betrayal, may we find solace in the arms of our Savior, who knows our weaknesses and loves us unconditionally. May we be transformed by his love and empowered to walk in his footsteps, sharing his love and grace with a world in need.