4th Week in Easter Time, Thursday – 29th April 2021 — Gospel: John 13,16-20
Bitterest Knowing
Jesus knew ‘the Scriptures’ concerning His betrayal must be fulfilled. The Scripture is from Psalm 41,9 and refers here to Judas. Judas was one who had eaten his meal with the Lord for three years, and yet ‘he lifted up his heel against Him.’ It is an expression indicating that he betrayed the Lord. In Psalm 41 the betrayer is described by the Lord as “my bosom friend.” Of all the sorrows of life, this is certainly one of the bitterest – to be betrayed by one who has had close associations with you. Although Jesus had chosen Judas as an apostle, Judas had never submitted to Jesus as Lord. He had heard His teaching and seen His miracles. He had preached to others about Jesus. He even had his feet washed outwardly, but Judas wasn’t clean all over (Jn 13,10). Knowing in advance that Judas would betray Him, Jesus never trusted him. So Jesus warns the other disciples of Judas’ betrayal in anticipation so that it wouldn’t shake their faith. Judas’ example is a warning. You can be closely associated with Jesus and be His follower, can even serve in His ministry and yet you’ve never had Jesus cleanse you of your sins. The only basis for gaining salvation is to know that Jesus is your Lord and Teacher, and has truly washed your feet.
