Holy Week Day #4 ~ Betrayal & Regret

Scripture is unclear about what Jesus did on Wednesday of Holy Week. He likely spent all or part of the day teaching in the temple, but however He spent it I believe there was one thing that weighed on His mind.

Then one of the twelve, whose name was Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, “What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?” And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him.                                                                                    Matthew 26:14-16 ESV

Judas thought he went to the chief priests in secret, but Jesus knew what he was doing. Those actions would set in motion two days of anguish for Jesus, but ultimately the salvation of the world. Jesus also knew what his actions meant for Judas’ eternity, and that may have saddened Jesus even more than His impending suffering and death.

The betrayal of Jesus by Judas led to arrest and then crucifixion, but I’m not sure Judas knew it was going that far. We can’t know for certain, but I think Judas had a lot of anger and jealousy inside of him and acted impulsively. We do know Judas later regretted his actions and tried to undo what he had done. (see Matthew 27:3-5)

If only Judas had gone to Jesus instead of back to the priests. Judas didn’t realize that just as the actions of Joseph’s brothers in the Old Testament led to their own salvation from starving to death, the actions of Judas led to the salvation of the world. If Judas had gone to Jesus he might have heard the words of Joseph spoke to his brothers long ago. Jesus was ready to forgive Judas, but never had the opportunity.

As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.      Genesis 50:20

We might have more time on our hands during this stay-at-home time, including more time to think. If that thinking leads you to regretting words spoken or regretable actions of the past, please know that you can erase that regret. Begin by spending time with the Lord in prayer and confession. Then accept the forgiveness He offers. Allow it to sink deep inside of you and comfort you like a balm.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins
and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.         1 John 1:9

Jesus loves you and is waiting for you to come to Him, accept forgiveness and give you peace. It might be hard to believe, but it’s true. What do you have to lose, except pain and regret?! Take it to Jesus and leave it at His feet.

This Easter could bring peace and joy like you’ve never experienced. Please take some time today to take your pain and regret to Jesus and let Him replace them with peace that passes understanding!

Blessings and peace to you!
Paula