The Lord continues to defend the just and faithful servant!

March 27, Wednesday of Holy Week
Daily Readings: Isaiah 50:4-9a, Matthew 26:14-25

Today’s first reading presents the Third Song of the Suffering Servant. The servant of God or the prophet speaks in the context of the Babylonian exile. He narrates the cost of being a faithful and obedient servant. There are three parts to this reading. In the first part (vv. 4-5), he speaks about his vocation or call and its purpose. God has endowed him with the gift of giving hope and consolation to His people. In the second part (v. 6), the servant narrates his ordeals at the hands of his enemies. In the third part (vv. 7-9), he describes the vindication and advocacy of the Lord. The servant is quite daring to face all kinds of adversaries since the Lord helps him to face them.

Judas Iscariot has decided to listen to the Satan who is present in him and betray Jesus. He approaches the chief priests to strike a deal and the price of Jesus’ life is just thirty pieces of silver. The feast of unleavened bread offers him the desired occasion.

Jesus celebrates the Passover meal with his disciples for the last time. With great distress, after having washed the feet of his disciples and instituted the Eucharist, he announces that one of the Twelve will betray him. Matthean Jesus takes everyone by surprise, saying that the one who dips his hand into the bowl with Jesus will be the betrayer.

Judas Iscariot not only dips his hand in the bowl but also confirms it by asking Jesus a question. A disciple betrays the Master. It happens according to the will of God. Jesus says that if he had not been born, it would have been better for him. But then it had to happen. The history of salvation would be incomplete without it.

Call to Action for Catholic Living: Sufferings is an integral aspect of human existence. They purify the human body and soul. We should not hesitate to embrace them with a smile. Will I be able to do that every day?