Station two: Judas betrays Jesus

Bible reading

Returning the third time, he said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Enough! The hour has come. Look, the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners. Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!”
Just as he was speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, appeared. With him was a crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders. Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard.” Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Rabbi!” and kissed him. The men seized Jesus and arrested him.

Mark 14:41-44 (NIV)

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Pause

Judas is one of Jesus’ closest friends, he is one of the 12 disciples. He was the disciple Jesus trusted to take care of any money that they are given as they travelled around. Judas has an idea of what Jesus, as Messiah should be like. Jesus is not measuring up to his vision and so he agrees to betray him to the Jewish authorities. The signal to the guards is a kiss. Jesus is betrayed by the deepest sign of affection, a kiss.

​Sometimes we are let down by those we love and trust the most. It is painful and leaves us lonely and distrusting. Jesus shares this experience. Christians believe that when you feel alone, Jesus is still with you.

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Ponder

• Was there a time when a friend let you down?
• How did it make you feel? You might want to ask God to help you to deal with those feelings.
• Have you ever let a friend down?
• How did it make you feel?
• How might you make that right?
• What is the best way of dealing with a disagreement?