John 13: 16-20
When Jesus had washed the disciples' feet, he said to them: "Amen, amen, I say to you, no slave is greater than his master nor any messenger greater than the one who sent him. If you understand this, blessed are you if you do it. I am not speaking of all of you. I know those whom I have chosen. But so that the Scripture might be fulfilled, The one who ate my food has raised his heel against me. From now on I am telling you before it happens, so that when it happens you may believe that I AM. Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever receives the one I send receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me."
Dawg's Thought:
Today's prayer intention - for those who are struggling with addictions.
"Blessed are you if you do it ... "
Unfortunately, Judas was one who did not do it. Instead, he was one who thought that he greater and wiser than the Teacher.
The thought of Judas brings a shock because of his betrayal. So, the thought of equating someone with Judas always brings a turn of the head.
Yet, as I'm turning my head, shouldn't I be looking within? Judas was one who did not trust in the will of God. Am I any different? Judas was one who acted against the will of God. Haven't I done the same?
I have said to Jesus, "surely, no I, Master." I have betrayed Jesus with my words and with my actions.
Judas used his "informed conscience" to choose the Pharisees versus choosing the Son of God. Judas used his "informed conscience" to choose 30 silver pieces over a Savior.
How many times have I chosen lesser things over a loving and gracious God?
"O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins, because I dread the loss of heaven, and the pains of hell; BUT MOST OF ALL BECAUSE THEY OFFEND THEE, MY GOD, WHO ARE ALL GOOD AND DESERVING OF ALL MY LOVE. I firmly resolve, with the help of Thy grace, to confess my sins, to do penance, and to amend my life. Amen." - the Act of Contrition, typically said after Confession
Lord, give me an awareness
of my tendencies of how i betray You,
My God, Who are all good
and deserving of all my love.
I do not want to receive the inheritance of Judas,
Your betrayer,
but rather the inheritance of the Saints
who praise You before Your throne.
Give me a heart that longs to be before Your throne
versus a heart that seeks its own will
or a heart that chooses "silver pieces" over a Savior.
I have faith that You will give me this awareness
because You are merciful and loving.
I thank You, Lord, for Your faithfulness and Your love.
Amen.
Take care and God Bless.
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