“And the LORD said to me, ‘Throw it to the potter’ — the handsome price at which they priced me! So I took the thirty pieces of silver and threw them into the house of the LORD to the potter.” — Zechariah 11:13

Every aspect of Jesus’ ministry is beautiful to us because it ended up being for our salvation. Even this prophecy, which predicted the betrayal payment that Judas would get for turning Jesus over to the religious leaders, was one step toward our redemption. But have you ever thought about it from Jesus’ perspective? What pain it must have caused Jesus to have one of His disciples turn on Him and betray Him. I can hear Jesus saying to Himself, “Why, Judas, why? What did I ever do to you to get this in return?”

If you’re older than 20 and are alive and breathing, you can probably relate to Jesus’ betrayal. Human relationships are not easy! It is amazing how deeply sin can wedge its way in and break down the heart of a friendship. I am certain we all have experienced betrayal like this. It is flat-out painful! You are left with more questions than you have answers. You’re left asking how and why did this happen?

As I write this devotion I cannot assume that we have all been on the Jesus side of the betrayals in our lives. The truth is that some of us have been Judas; at times we have been the betrayer. This morning I want to assure you that no matter what side of the betrayal you find yourself, you have a Savior in Jesus. He understands your pain and bore that pain and the sin that caused it on the cross. The Gospel heals and restores broken hearts and broken relationships.

Finally, if you’re at all like me, you have to admit that often times the one you betray is Jesus Himself. Like Judas, we allow our sinful desires to well up in us and we betray the very One we committed our life to. Look up and see Jesus reaching out to you and calling your name. See Him loving, forgiving, and restoring you just as He did Peter after his denials. Jesus loves you! Let go of the guilt and shame and let the Gospel restore your relationship.

Peace!

Pastor Tom

www.firmlyrooted.org