THE STORY OF JESUS: Matthew 26:14-16
“From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.” (Matthew 26:16)
Judas has a money issue: as Jesus’ treasurer he would dip into the funds for himself (John 12:6).
For Judas, this waste of costly perfume is the last straw.
How happy he could be with 30 silver coins: buy a field, grow crops, be content for the rest of his life!
And so Judas exchanges the treasure of God for some pocket change.
Judas was so close to Jesus, and yet he did not see the treasure that was before him.
How many church-goers are in the same camp, more focused on themselves than on Jesus.
Sunday after Sunday they hear about Jesus, they even sing songs and contribute money.
With all the talk about comfort and blessing, Jesus seems to be more of a means to an end.
This is a betrayal of Jesus too, a twisting of selfish grace into selfish gain.
What good is it if someone gains the whole world but loses his very self? (Luke 9:25)
Money, sex, power, pleasure, possessions, success, fame…
What ‘bait’ does Satan use in my life to get my eyes off of Jesus?
What am I selling my soul for, what am I betraying Jesus for?
One day we may find ourselves asking with regret, ‘was it really worth it?’
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, show me how my selfish desires are hurting me, You and others. Show me the ‘coin’ that I am betraying You for.