Station 2: Day 3

Jesus is betrayed by Judas

While he was still speaking, suddenly a crowd came, and the one called Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him; but Jesus said to him, “Judas, is it with a kiss that you are betraying the Son of Man?”[1]

Meditation

            We might consider the method of Judas’ betrayal as passive-aggressive. Passive-aggressive behavior expresses hostility in indirect ways, such as by sarcastic criticisms that are lightly covered to sound like a compliment. This type of behavior is particularly infuriating because it is doubly dishonest and, as such, doubly hurtful. When someone is angry with us, or when someone otherwise wishes to hurt us, it is one thing for them to speak their anger in direct and hurtful ways. When someone attempts to hurt us in indirect ways, however, such as betraying us with a kiss, we are left with confusion added to the hurt.

            That Judas betrayed Jesus to the authorities is one thing – the initiating act in the series of events leading to the crucifixion. That Judas betrayed Jesus by approaching him as a loving brother must have added disappointment to the hurt.

Spiritual Discipline

Find a quiet place and enter a time of silence for 10 minutes. Attempt to let go of the trials of the moment – your to do list, your stressors at work or home, the pressing needs of family. Deliberately turn off your inner dialogue by acknowledging thoughts as they come to you, then letting them go. Breathe deeply and internalize whatever degree of silence you can attain. There is no pressure to receive insights or inspiration. Experiencing silence is sufficient.

Prayer

Patient and understanding Lord, as I strive to comprehend the nature in which you were betrayed, help me better grasp the passive-aggressive manner in which I may hurt others. Help me to be honest and direct as I interact with you and with others, always speaking the truth with love and respect. Amen.   

This is the 10^thin a daily series titled The Stations of the Cross that will run through Easter 2026, at which time I will return to my weekly Life Notes. Life Notes are my explorations into mysteries that interest me. They are invitations for readers to explore more deeply into life’s mysteries. Engage with me or explore contemplative spiritual direction at ghildenbrand@outlook.com.

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[1] Luke 22:47-48