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While [Jesus] was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a great crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the elders of the people. Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the Man; seize Him.” And he came up to Jesus at once and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” And he kissed Him. Jesus said to him, “Friend, do what you came to do.” (Matthew 26:47-50a)
It must have been dark under those trees, in spite of the full moon. Jesus stands waiting while His eleven disciples jump up, startled—confused, half-awake, rubbing their eyes. Through the trees a crowd is coming, carrying swords and clubs, and probably torches, too. And with them, Judas—who goes straight up to Jesus and greets Him with a kiss.
What was Judas thinking—that Jesus would try to avoid His own arrest in the darkness? Apparently so, or why would he need a special way of identifying Him for the guards?
But Jesus never intended to run away. Judas had the sign of love, but Jesus had the reality. And for our sake, He would go through with it all—His arrest, suffering, death, and rising to life again on the third day. Because He loves us that much.
WE PRAY: Lord, thank You for loving us so. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
- Why do you think Judas chose a kiss as His sign?
- How do you know if someone really loves you?
- What do Jesus’ actions tell you about the way He feels about you?
Lenten Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.
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