Daily Gospel Reflection for April 1, 2015

Today’s Gospel: Matthew 26:14-25

Wednesday of Holy Week

This well-known scene from the Last Supper recalls that Judas, one of the twelve trusted apostles, sold out Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. When speaking of his betrayer as they reclined at table, Jesus said, “Perhaps it would be better for that man if he had never been born.” While we can sit and pass judgment on Judas, I think we need to ask ourselves how often we have betrayed Jesus? Acts of betrayal can come in all shapes and sizes. Perhaps we haven’t sold Jesus out for thirty pieces of silver, but maybe we have sold him out for the corporate ladder of greed? Perhaps we have sold him out for our own interests? How often have we missed Mass because we were too tired, or it was inconvenient to pay homage the One who died for us? How many times have we been intentionally mean to another, seeking revenge at all costs? How many times have we sinned and not asked for God’s mercy and compassion? These are acts of betrayal on our part. This gospel challenges us to examine our heart and our intentions each day. Are we like Judas the betrayer, having our own interests at heart? Or do we strive each day to love and serve the Lord and one another with a sincere heart? The choice is up to you.

Ponder:

Reflect on a time when you were betrayed by someone you loved. What feelings did you experience? Have you reconciled with this person? How do you rebuild trust when the bond is broken? Pray for forgiveness for your actions, and make a concerted effort not to betray Jesus in your thoughts, words, and actions.

Pray:

Lord God,
Your mercy is without end.
Pour out your grace upon us that we
may have the courage to be faithful followers
of Jesus all the days of our life.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

We thank our friends at The Word Among Us for providing our gospel reflection team with copies of Abide In My Word 2015: Mass Readings at Your Fingertips. To pray the daily gospels with this wonderful resource, visit The Word Among Us.

Copyright 2015 Dr. Mary Amore