“Friends, the scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit through David foretold concerning Judas, who became a guide for those who arrested Jesus— for he was numbered among us and was allotted his share in this ministry.” (Acts 1:16-17)
Judas, demonized by tradition, had a calling from the Spirit.
Did he do just what he was supposed to do, whatever the cost to his friendships, and his reputation, and the judgment of history?
Or did he misunderstand, and act wrongly–but perhaps in good faith?
Judas’s story is an unanswered question: why did he do what he did?
He is easy to caricature and terrifying to take to heart.
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Have we all not sometimes misunderstood what God was leading us to do?
Have we all not sometimes acted too drastically, and regretted our mistake, and wished we could take it back?
Have we ever had the courage to do what no one would understand?
Judas’s story is of conviction, and confusion, and heartsickness.
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Think of a friend struggling under the burden of their calling.
They may be a person of responsibility and conscience: Judas handled the finances of Jesus’ band of disciples, and his passion was for the poor and oppressed.
Be a friend to them. Some have a job before them that no one understands, not even they, and that is terrible for them to imagine. And some strive to do what is best, but choose less.
Beloved, ask them to tell you their story.
Listen.
Take your friend to heart.
Amen.
–Fire: Ash Wednesday to Pentecost
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