“Then when Judas, who had betrayed Him, saw that He had been condemned, he felt remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, saying, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” But they said, “What is that to us? See to that yourself!” (Matthew 27:3-4)

We may have remorse in our lives, but does it drive us to repentance; or is it one more element of disappointment that reminds us that we are not in control?  Judas betrayed God.  He was used, just as this world uses many, but every opportunity to repent was rejected.  The world says, “What is that to us?”  The Lord desires that we repent and receive His grace.  We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.

Lord, You know all things.  You know how all of this will play out.  Lead me Lord so that I neither betray You, nor refuse to repent when caught in sin.  You give every opportunity, so help me to take every opportunity that You give.  Lead me out of this world’s way of thinking so that I may put on the mind of Christ.  Help me every step of the way and let my eyes look to You as the source of salvation.

Lord Jesus, You have been betrayed by us all.  Time and again, You offer grace, asking us to repent and turn to You.  Guide me in the way You would have me go so that I live according to the goodness and mercy that You give.  Help me every step of the way so that I walk in Your ways and not according to what I may want or even think.  Lead me in the way of salvation, whatever that may take and whatever that may mean.  Amen.

“Now when morning came, all the chief priests and the elders of the people conferred together against Jesus to put Him to death; and they bound Him, and led Him away and delivered Him to Pilate the governor” (Matthew 27:1-2).

The world has lived the lie that if they could get rid of God, they could do what they want.  People pretend He is not here.  Others ignore Him.  Here, they plot to crucify Him.  Be rid of the reality and live the illusion.  But this is neither true, nor sustainable.  The Creator and Sustainer of the universe IS and He will bring all things together for good for those who love Him.  The Father’s will shall be done.

Lord, there is such sadness in this world where there are so many who deny You and even reality itself.  But You have called me into light and life.  Guide me, Lord, in the way of living that is right so that I dwell in Your presence always.  You, who went to the cross for my sake, have come into my life to lift me out of the rebellion and illusions of this age.  Lead me, Lord, to do the Father’s will, no matter what it may be.

Lord Jesus, I am barely able to grasp Your willingness to go through the trial and condemnation for my sake, yet You did.  Help me to meet the trials and tribulations that will come my way so that I too am willing to live the life of faith You have given me by grace, no matter what may come.  Hold me steadfastly to the narrow way of truth, and lead me now and always according to the Father’s will.  Amen.