Readings: Isaiah 50:4–9a; Psalm 69:8–10, 21–22, 31, 33–34; Matthew 26:14–25
Today in the past has been called Spy Wednesday because today, in the logic of Holy Week and the readings, Judas goes out to make a deal with the Pharisees at the expense of Jesus. In Matthew’s account of the Last Supper Our Lord says something that would be sad on anyone’s lips, but is chilling when it comes from the lips of God about one of his creations: “It would be better for that man if he had never been born.” Judas not only turned his back on his God, his Creator, his best friend, but he betrayed him. The other apostles, despite their failings and frailties to be seen over the next few days, are remembered as saints and apostles; Judas is remembered with infamy as the betrayer. Neither are forgotten, but what different sentiments their memories evoke.
How do you want to be remembered? As a part of the joyful and fond memories of many friends and hearing those blessed words from your Creator, “well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21) or with sadness and pity as someone who failed in life where it really mattered–loving God and loving others–and making people wonder whether it would’ve been better for you if you’d not lived at all? It is in your hands.