Today in Holy Week, this is often called “Spy Wednesday.” This is the day that Judas begins the process of berating Jesus. But before we get to this, we see the religious leaders looking for a time and a place to arrest Jesus. We see the disciples angry at Jesus for being anointed with ointment and not selling it. Could it be from this place of anger, this place of frustration, that the devil begins to grab that foothold and begin to do his work? What do we do when we do not understand Jesus or what He is doing?

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Good morning, and welcome to Holy Wednesday. I’m Andy Stoddard from St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church in Madison. It’s a privilege to journey with you through Holy Week as we draw nearer to the somber events of Friday. Today, we explore a pivotal moment often referred to as Spy Wednesday, focusing on Judas’ betrayal of Jesus.

Our primary passage for today is found in Matthew 26:14-16, where Judas, one of the twelve disciples, strikes a deal with the chief priests to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. This marked the beginning of his treacherous actions, earning the day its nickname, Spy Wednesday.

To grasp the significance of Judas’ betrayal, it’s essential to contextualize it within the broader narrative of Matthew 26. Prior to Judas’ betrayal, we witness the mounting tension between Jesus and the religious leaders, who conspire to arrest and kill him. Meanwhile, a poignant moment unfolds as a woman anoints Jesus with costly ointment, sparking controversy among the disciples.

These events reveal a common thread of misunderstanding and frustration directed towards Jesus. Both the religious leaders and Jesus’ own disciples exhibit a lack of comprehension and, at times, outright opposition to his teachings and actions. This discord sets the stage for Judas’ betrayal, fueled by disillusionment and possibly personal grievances.

Reflecting on these passages prompts us to consider our response when confronted with the challenging path Jesus lays before us. Like the disciples, we may find ourselves resistant or even resentful of the journey Jesus calls us to undertake. Yet, in moments of frustration or doubt, it’s crucial to refocus our gaze on Him, the ultimate guide of our faith.

The narrative of Judas serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the dangers of succumbing to anger and disillusionment. When we allow our desires and emotions to overshadow our commitment to Christ, we open ourselves to the influence of darker forces. Instead, we must strive to maintain our focus on Jesus, trusting in His wisdom and guidance even when the path ahead seems uncertain or challenging.

As we navigate the complexities of our faith journey, let us heed the lessons of Spy Wednesday. Let us remain steadfast in our devotion to Christ, resisting the temptation to betray His teachings for fleeting gains or momentary frustrations. By keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, we can find the strength and clarity to walk confidently in His footsteps, even when the road ahead appears daunting.

Thank you for joining me today. Tomorrow, we’ll continue our exploration with Maundy Thursday, marking the powerful culmination of Holy Week. Until then, may you find peace and inspiration in your reflections on this sacred journey. Have a blessed day, and I look forward to our continued fellowship tomorrow.