Pauses for Lent Day 37
Pauses for Lent by Trevor Hudson
Word for Day 37: BETRAY
Scripture: “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me.” Matthew 26:21
Few experiences can be more painful than betrayal. Many of us have faced betrayal in our own lives - a romantic partner has an affair, a close friend beaks confidentiality, a business partner deceives us. Such acts of betrayal cut painfully into our souls, often evoking anger and hatred.
In the week leading up to his crucifixion, Jesus also experiences betrayal. Peter denies him. Judas kisses him. His other friends desert him. Because of these betrayals, Jesus enters his passion and faithfully fulfills his calling as the suffering servant-king.
Could our betrayals also become moments to live more passionately into our calling as followers of the Crucified One? What would it mean for us this Lent to move beyond the anger and hatred we feel toward those who have betrayed us?
Comment from Marie: The truth is that while being betrayed is devastating, it is also true that we don’t want to betray another person and cause that kind of pain. The author suggests we can do this by always seeking to be faithful to the promises we make. Let’s be intentional in this regard. Please share your thoughts on today’s word.
Word for Day 37: BETRAY
Scripture: “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me.” Matthew 26:21
Few experiences can be more painful than betrayal. Many of us have faced betrayal in our own lives - a romantic partner has an affair, a close friend beaks confidentiality, a business partner deceives us. Such acts of betrayal cut painfully into our souls, often evoking anger and hatred.
In the week leading up to his crucifixion, Jesus also experiences betrayal. Peter denies him. Judas kisses him. His other friends desert him. Because of these betrayals, Jesus enters his passion and faithfully fulfills his calling as the suffering servant-king.
Could our betrayals also become moments to live more passionately into our calling as followers of the Crucified One? What would it mean for us this Lent to move beyond the anger and hatred we feel toward those who have betrayed us?
Comment from Marie: The truth is that while being betrayed is devastating, it is also true that we don’t want to betray another person and cause that kind of pain. The author suggests we can do this by always seeking to be faithful to the promises we make. Let’s be intentional in this regard. Please share your thoughts on today’s word.
1 Comment
The betrayal I felt most strongly happened early in my career as a director, and I have to admit that the only thing that helped me forgive was time. It really, really hurt! Forgiveness just was not something I could do. Luckily, I was able to distance myself from the person who betrayed and moved on to another theater group. It's hard to imagine how alone Jesus must have felt when all his disciples closest to him betrayed him. I agree with Marie that we must honor our promises, and today's word has helped me reflect on all the loneliness and betrayal Christ experienced beginning with Maunday Thursday.