Spy Wednesdays from the past

I've written many posts on Spy Wednesday over the years. Here are a few. Today I'll be meditating on the betrayals in my own life. My sins were among those that caused Jesus's bloody sweat. Let me put sorrow for my sins in the cup of consolation the angel brought to Him in the garden. 

 Did Jesus Love Judas?

Why it's called Spy Wednesday

How does the evil one mess with you?

Betrayal

Spy Wednesday: A Reflection from the Past

I'm trying to spend more time in prayer and meditation this week rather than hours on the computer. So I'm linking to a post I did two years ago on Spy Wednesday instead of composing something new.

Spy Wednesday: Did Jesus Love Judas?

 Besides there is "nothing new under the sun" and every minute is "now" with the Lord. This Spy Wednesday takes us on a time machine to all the Spy Wednesdays of the past when we reflect on all our personal betrayals. Let us pray many Acts of Contrition today. I pray that you are having a blessed Holy Week. It's not too late to fertilize the final days of Lent with prayer, sacrifice and meditation for a spiritual growth spurt. My Jesus, I trust in You. Mary, Mother of the Savior, pray for us.

Spy Wednesday: Judas Betrays Jesus

Giotto 'The Betrayal of Christ', 1303-06 (Fresco)

Wednesday of Holy Week is traditionally called "Spy Wednesday" because Judas bargained with the High Priest to betray Jesus for thirty silver pieces (Matt 26:14-16; Mark 14:10-11; Luke 22:1-6). In Poland, the young people throw an effigy of Judas from the top of a church steeple. Then it is dragged through the village amidst hurling sticks and stones. What remains of the effigy is drowned in nearby stream or pond. (Read more...). 

For a brief meditation on Judas' betrayal, go here. 

Holy Week Meditation: Spy Wednesday -- Did Jesus Love Judas?

The short answer: ABSOLUTELY! Perhaps His compassion was greater for Judas than for all the others knowing his tragic end. Judas was one of the chosen ones among the disciples called to be part of the select twelve! And even given the particular responsibility of holding the purse and administering alms to the poor. Wasn't giving him that role an act of trust?

And while I'm reflecting on those whom Jesus loved, what about the pharisees and sadducees plotting to kill him? Did He love them?

Spy Wednesday: Reflecting on the Judas in Myself

How many times do I betray Christ? How many times do I put human respect or selfishness ahead of God's will in my life? How many times do I close my eyes to the needs of my neighbors because they did not meet my expectations or I found them not to my taste? Judas is part of my nature. I know him well. Would I scream, "Crucify him!" before Pilate? Would I mock my God hanging on the cross? Please no, Lord. Make me all yours and then do with me what You will.