Scripture:
While they were reclining at the table eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me-one who is eating with me.” Mark 14:18
Observation:
At first glance, we could be tempted to think that Judas Iscariot is the only one to betray Jesus in the Upper Room. However, all of the disciples in one way or another fled or denied Jesus. This includes Simon Peter who would deny Jesus three times. How can we think we are exempt from this pronouncement? Surely, there have been times where all of us have betrayed Jesus. Most of the time, our betrayal is not intentional. Yet, if we when we sin, we betray God. In his great mercy, God forgives us and offers us redemption and reconciliation. The key for us is to accept the gravity of our sin, and to accept the cure for sin that God offers to us in Jesus Christ.
Application:
I want to accept that God has befriended me, even when the Lord knows that I have not been faithful to him. I want to accept forgiveness from God and from others, and seek to be a better friend to God and others.
Prayer:
Lord, please forgive me for the ways that my attitudes and actions have betrayed my faith in you. Thank you for your fellowship and friendship through the Holy Spirit. Help me to think, say, and do things that are pleasing to you. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.