While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived accompanied by a large crowd, with swords and clubs, who had come from the chief priests and the elders of the people. His betrayer had arranged a sign with them saying, “The man I shall kiss is the one; arrest him.” Immediately he went over to Jesus and said, “Hail, Rabbi!” and he kissed him.

Matthew 25:47-49

Judas brings soldiers to the Garden of Gethsemane to arrest Jesus. His actions are intended to mock Jesus and the invitations he had made to Judas. While Jesus had invited Judas to friendship, Judas uses a kiss, a symbol of close friendship, as a sign of betrayal. While Jesus had invited Judas to follow him, Judas approaches him and calls him “Rabbi.” In that culture, a disciple never went up to his master or teacher unless called. Judas has added insult to injury.

The path of sin moves us into deeper hurts and wounds. What can begin as simple selfishness can turn to anger and malice. This is why we need to repent sooner rather than later.  The sooner we turn away from our selfishness, the sooner our friendship with God and others can be healed.

Pray today for the grace to turn from sins of selfishness and back to God.