THE WORD BECAME FLESH

Wednesday of Holy Week, 2021

Isa 50: 4-9

Ps 69

Matt 26: 14-25

Is it I, Master?

Dear friends in Christ, it seems the readings of these last days are more about the betrayal by the disciples. This is for a reason. If we focus on the twelve disciples, who were very close to Jesus and realise that they were completely human, in their reactions, in the weeks and days leading to the death and resurrection of Jesus, it will also help our own spirituality. It points to the fact that it is only by the grace and mercy of God, that we can be saved, not by our power, might  or knowledge. Was Judas’ aim to actually help the enemies kill Jesus, why will he do that?

Our first reading today is from Isaiah 50:4-9 and it contains the third of the songs of the suffering Servant. It is a passage that reminds us of God’s care for us. “The Lord God has given me the tongue of those who are taught…morning by morning he wakens me, he wakens me to hear as those who are taught.” The servant of God listens like a disciple and by that, brings a message to those who are weary to revive them. Because he listens, he has a better understanding of the challenges of life and so is able to endure. “…I was not rebellious, I turned not backward. I gave my back to those who struck me and my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard; I hid not my face from shame and spitting.” Because this servant relies on God, he is not affected by the lack of human approval, he is vindicated by God and the Lord God helps him.

The Gospel of today (Matthew 26:14-25) brings to us, the one who fulfils the songs of the servant in Jesus. Jesus was not ashamed of his mission. He may not have human approval, as they sought to kill him, yet he had his hope in the Father who is able to deliver him from their hands. His betrayal was not from outside his own fold. Every one of the twelve, one after the other said, “Is it I, Lord?” In other words, ‘I would never do that, Could I do such a thing?’ Yet one after the other, they deserted him and was found alone and abandoned by all, on the cross. Judas was even more convincing by his question, “Is it I Master?” Jesus answered him, “You have said so.” Have I failed to live up to my beliefs, my values, my ideals and still condemn others for not living up to theirs?

Do I really feel sorry for my failures? Each time you go to confession, in the act of contrition, you promise not to sin again, don't you? How have you stayed with that promise? Has the season of Lent been helpful at doing away with sin? “Is it I Master?”

Let us pray: O my God, because you are so good, I am very sorry I have sinned against you, by the Help of your grace, I will not sin again. Amen.

+Remain blessed