Tragedy

Scripture: Matthew 26:14-16, 27:3-5
Focus Verses: Matthew 26: 15c & 27:5
The chief priests paid Judas thirty pieces of silver … Throwing down the pieces of silver in the temple, he departed; and he went and hanged himself.

Commentary:  We know that Judas has an issue with skimming money, so he is not happy with the expensive perfume bought to anoint Jesus because he doesn’t get his cut.  Perhaps he is angry enough to betray but his behavior when he finds out Jesus is condemned contradicts this theory and makes it more likely that Judas had other motives.  When he commits suicide, it is tragic.  Jesus would have forgiven him, but he couldn’t forgive himself.     

Reflection: Have you ever had problems forgiving yourself? If so, what insight do you have into the way Judas feels?

ACTS Prayer
Adoration:  Forgiving God, I praise your mercy in awe!
Confession:  I confess that I sometimes struggle with forgiving myself and others. I often have mixed feelings.
Thanksgiving: Thank you for accepting me in my confusion.
Supplication: I pray for all who feel they cannot be forgiven.

ACTS of Faith:  If there is someone you can’t forgive, forgive them anyway, your heart will transform in time.