Lenten Devotional: February 25, 2026

by Rev. Bob Martin

Betrayal isn't final

Scripture Reflection: Mark 14:10-11 NLT

Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, went to the leading priests to arrange to betray Jesus to them. They were delighted when they heard why he had come, and they promised to give him money. So he began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus.

No one is exempt. We are either a betrayer or we have been betrayed; or both... It is something extremal and comes from within our inner circles, in most cases. The Gospels walk us through the moment Judas betrayed Jesus. It came at a time when he was disillusioned. That happens, doesn't it? We get disillusioned about life or an event and then that same feeling leads us to make a choice that often isn't good. Worse yet, we look for a way out. Instead of dealing with the situation on our own, we are prone to blame others. Judas blamed Jesus because Jesus wasn't going to overthrow Rome by force. Instead of wearing a crown of victory, Jesus would choose the cross. That's when Judas became disillusioned and that is exactly what led him to betray his Lord and his friend.

Oftentimes we wonder, "What would I do? Could I ever betray another?" It starts as a slow leak in a relationship and ultimately erupts into the dreadful act. Lent teaches us to look beyond the obvious and seek what is often overlooked. The obvious would be to read the story of Judas' betrayal and condemn him. That may be true and an act that comes. But, is there more to what the Gospels are teaching us?

If we look beyond the betrayal we see the mercy of God. Jesus not only knew he was to be betrayed by Judas, but he also invited him to the Passover dinner and if that wasn't enough, gave Judas the seat of honor. Perhaps in the moments of betrayal we need to remind ourselves God draws near. Not like advice from Jiminy Cricket (our conscience) but His prevenient grace. God remains close to us even when we stray away. Judas strayed and yet Jesus chose to remain close. That says alot about God's grace, love and mercy.

Takeaway: If you are one who has been betrayed, seek God's mercy to lead you through the dark times. Know beyond all doubt God knows what it feels like and you're not alone. If you are the betrayer, take a step back and reclaim God's promise in your life and in your relationships. Know it is never too late to build the bridge, repent and ask for forgiveness. Jesus stayed close to Judas and my guess is, He will stay close to you.