The Paradox of Judas’ Betrayal

Text: Luke 22: 14-23

Reflection and Question: Here is Luke’s telling of the First Communion celebrated every day ever since that first time, stretching from that sacred moment to this. And in the midst of our dearest rite is the astounding paradox: Jesus’ death “has been determined” and, as the same time, Jesus promises woe to Judas, “that one by whom he is betrayed.” If Jesus had to be betrayed, then some one had to do it. If Judas was just doing a predetermined job, should he be condemned?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, we thank you for the simple meal that has sustained and energized Your church from that time to this. Help us to embrace paradox as Holy Ground and then to embrace Judas as our brother. Amen.

This meditation is based on the Daily Lectionary Year 1 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).