Judas did not complete the journey to Mount Calvary. He had started the journey at the foot of the Mount of Transfiguration with Jesus and the rest of the disciples. He had heard Jesus share what would happen in Jerusalem. He had seen the miracles. He had heard the teachings. He had seen the love and compassion Jesus had for all. He had been among those who had been sent out by Jesus, and seen the power of God at work. As Peter reported concerning Judas to those who gathered after the Ascension, "he was one of our number and shared in this ministry" (Acts 1:17).
We do know he was filled with regret. We do know he sought to make things right by returning the 30 pieces of silver. Would that the chief priests had compassion when Judas was filled with remorse at his act: "What is that to us?" (Matthew 27:4b) was their reply. If only Judas had returned to Jesus and received the forgiveness that Christ was winning for him through His suffering and death.
That forgiveness is available to each of us when we acknowledge our sins-no matter how dreadful-and look to Jesus.
THE PRAYER: Bless us, Jesus, so that when we sin, we acknowledge it and turn to You. Amen.
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