Scripture Reading:
“Then one of the Twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, ‘What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?’ They paid him thirty pieces of silver, and from that time on he looked for an opportunity to hand him over.”
—Matthew 26:14-16 (NABRE)
Holy Wednesday is often called “Spy Wednesday” because it marks the day when Judas Iscariot conspired to betray Jesus. For thirty pieces of silver—the price of a slave—he was willing to hand over the Lord. This moment is one of deep sorrow, not just because of Judas’ betrayal, but because it reminds us of the ways we, too, have been unfaithful to Christ.
It is easy to condemn Judas, but Holy Wednesday calls us to honest reflection. Have we ever chosen something over Jesus? Have we ever betrayed Him through our sins, our silence, or our failure to love? Each time we sin, we, too, exchange our relationship with Christ for something fleeting and empty.
Yet, Jesus does not respond to betrayal with hatred. Even as He is abandoned, He remains steadfast in love. This is our great hope—that no matter how many times we have failed, Jesus still invites us to repentance, mercy, and restoration. Unlike Judas, who despaired, we are called to return to Christ, trusting that His love is greater than our sins.
As we prepare for the Sacred Triduum, let us renew our commitment to faithfulness. Let us surrender whatever separates us from Christ and ask for the grace to follow Him with unwavering hearts.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, You remained faithful even as You were betrayed. Forgive me for the times I have turned away from You. Help me to recognize the false promises of sin and to choose You above all things. Strengthen my heart so that I may walk with You, in faith and love, through this Holy Week and always. Amen.
Reflection Question:
What are the “thirty pieces of silver” in my life—things I sometimes place above my relationship with Jesus? How can I choose faithfulness today?
Find hope in your darkest hour.
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