Spy Wednesday: A Reflection on Betrayal in the Heart of Holy Week

Spy Wednesday: A Reflection on Betrayal in the Heart of Holy Week

Spy Wednesday, the Wednesday of Holy Week, is a day steeped in the somber reality of betrayal, as it commemorates Judas Iscariot’s decision to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. This day, nestled between the triumphal entry of Palm Sunday and the sacred Triduum, invites us to reflect on the human capacity for betrayal—not just Judas’s, but our own. Through the lens of Scripture and the liturgy, we’re called to examine our hearts, confront our failures, and seek the mercy that Christ offers even in the face of treachery. This reflection explores the significance of Spy Wednesday, the betrayal of Judas, and the personal and spiritual lessons we can draw from this pivotal moment in the Passion narrative.

The Origins of Spy Wednesday

The term “Spy Wednesday” is an ancient one, rooted in medieval tradition, though it’s less commonly used today in official liturgical language. It derives from the Gospel accounts of Judas’s betrayal, particularly Matthew 26:14-16, which is often read on this day: “Then one of the twelve, whose name was Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, ‘What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?’ And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him.” The word “spy” reflects Judas’s secretive plotting, as he becomes an informant for the religious authorities, seeking a moment to hand Jesus over.

In the Catholic tradition, Spy Wednesday is marked by the Mass of the day, with readings that foreshadow the Passion. The Gospel (Matthew 26:14-25) highlights Judas’s betrayal, while the first reading, often from Isaiah 50:4-9 (the third Suffering Servant song), points to Christ’s obedience and suffering: “I gave my back to those who strike, and my cheeks to those who pull out the beard; I hid not my face from disgrace and spitting.” The liturgy sets a tone of sorrow, preparing us for the events of the Triduum.

Judas’s Betrayal: A Study in Darkness

Judas’s act of betrayal is one of the most haunting moments in the Gospels. He was one of the Twelve, chosen by Jesus, privy to His teachings, miracles, and intimate moments. Yet, as John 12:6 reveals, Judas had a weakness—he was a thief, dipping into the common purse. Greed, disappointment, or perhaps a misguided attempt to force Jesus into political action may have driven him to betray his Master. Matthew’s account shows Judas negotiating with the chief priests, accepting thirty pieces of silver—the price of a slave (Exodus 21:32)—to hand Jesus over.

The betrayal unfolds with chilling subtlety. At the Last Supper, Jesus announces, “One of you will betray me” (Matthew 26:21). The disciples are distressed, each asking, “Is it I, Lord?” Judas, too, asks, “Is it I, Rabbi?” Jesus replies, “You have said so” (Matthew 26:25). Later, in Gethsemane, Judas identifies Jesus with a kiss—a sign of affection turned into a tool of treachery (Matthew 26:49). The kiss of Judas has become a symbol of betrayal across centuries, a stark reminder of how closeness can breed disloyalty.

Judas’s story doesn’t end with the betrayal. Overcome with remorse, he returns the silver and declares, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood” (Matthew 27:4). But instead of seeking mercy, he despairs, taking his own life (Matthew 27:5). His tragedy lies not just in his betrayal but in his failure to trust in Christ’s forgiveness—a contrast to Peter, who denies Jesus but repents and is restored (John 21:15-19).

A Reflection on Betrayal

Spy Wednesday forces us to confront the reality of betrayal in our own lives. Judas’s actions aren’t just a historical event—they mirror the ways we, too, can betray Christ. Every sin is, in a sense, a betrayal, a turning away from the One who loves us most. Like Judas, we’re often close to Jesus—through prayer, the sacraments, the community of the Church—yet we can still choose our own way over His.

I find myself asking: How do I betray Jesus? Maybe it’s in the small compromises—gossiping about a friend, neglecting prayer for convenience, or prioritizing material gain over spiritual growth. Maybe it’s in the moments I choose pride over humility, anger over forgiveness, or indifference over love. Judas’s betrayal was dramatic, but ours can be subtle, creeping into our daily choices. The question the disciples asked—“Is it I, Lord?”—echoes in my heart. It’s a question that demands honesty, a willingness to look at the shadows within.

Yet Spy Wednesday isn’t just about guilt—it’s about mercy. Jesus knew Judas would betray Him, yet He still washed his feet (John 13:5), shared the Passover with him, and called him “friend” even at the moment of betrayal (Matthew 26:50). This is the heart of Christ—unfathomable love that pursues us even when we turn away. Judas’s despair is a warning, but Peter’s restoration is a promise. We’re all capable of betrayal, but we’re also all invited to repentance. As Psalm 51:17 says, “A broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.”

Spy Wednesday in the Liturgy

The liturgy of Spy Wednesday deepens this reflection. The purple vestments worn by the priest reflect the penitential tone of the day, a reminder of our need for conversion as we approach the Triduum. The Gospel reading, with its stark depiction of Judas’s betrayal, sets the stage for the sorrow of Good Friday. In some traditions, the Tenebrae service—a series of readings and psalms, often celebrated on Wednesday evening—further immerses the faithful in the darkness of Christ’s Passion. Candles are extinguished one by one, symbolizing the growing isolation of Jesus as His disciples abandon Him.

There’s a rawness to this day—no special sacramentals, no elaborate ceremonies, just the stark reality of betrayal and the call to repentance. It’s a moment to pause, to sit with the weight of our own failures, and to prepare our hearts for the redemptive love that will unfold in the days ahead.

Lessons from Spy Wednesday

Spy Wednesday teaches us several profound lessons:

• Betrayal Is Universal: Judas’s story reminds us that we’re all capable of turning away from God. The disciples’ question—“Is it I?”—is our question too. We must examine our lives, not with despair, but with humility, seeking the grace to change.
• Mercy Awaits: Jesus’s love for Judas, even in betrayal, shows that no sin is beyond forgiveness. Unlike Judas, we’re called to turn back to Christ, trusting in His mercy. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
• Hope Amid Sorrow: The darkness of Spy Wednesday isn’t the end of the story. It leads to the cross, yes, but also to the empty tomb. Christ’s victory over sin and death assures us that even our betrayals can be redeemed.

A Call to Conversion

As I reflect on Spy Wednesday, I’m struck by the contrast between Judas and Jesus—between betrayal and fidelity, despair and hope. This day challenges me to look at my own betrayals, to name them honestly, and to bring them to the foot of the cross. It’s a day to ask, “Is it I, Lord?” and to hear Christ’s response: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

Spy Wednesday isn’t a day for despair but for conversion. As we stand on the threshold of the Triduum, we’re invited to let go of our thirty pieces of silver—whatever keeps us from Christ—and to trust in His mercy. Judas’s kiss may have led to the cross, but the cross leads to resurrection. In that truth, we find the courage to face our betrayals and the hope to rise again with Christ.

Spy Wednesday: A Day of Reflection and Betrayal

Spy Wednesday, the Wednesday before Easter, is a day that holds significant weight in the Christian Holy Week. It is a day marked by the somber remembrance of betrayal, as it commemorates the day Judas Iscariot agreed to betray Jesus Christ for thirty pieces of silver. This act of treachery is what gives this day its name, as 'spy' in this context refers to Judas acting as a betrayer or informant.

The events of Spy Wednesday set in motion the series of events that would lead to the crucifixion of Jesus, observed on Good Friday. It is a day that prompts Christians around the world to reflect on themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the human condition. The story of Judas is a powerful narrative that resonates with the frailty of human nature and the capacity for sin, even among those who are closest to us.

In the biblical account, as detailed in Matthew 26:14-16, Judas's decision to betray Jesus is not just a simple act of treachery; it is a complex interplay of human emotions and motivations. It raises questions about the nature of free will, the influence of greed, and the overwhelming power of regret. Judas' actions have been the subject of theological debate and reflection for centuries, and Spy Wednesday provides an opportunity for believers to contemplate the darker aspects of the Easter narrative.

The observance of Spy Wednesday varies among different Christian denominations, but it often includes Mass or a service focused on the story of Judas's betrayal. In some traditions, the day is also marked by acts of penance or charity, as a way to counteract the betrayal with acts of love and service.

As Holy Week progresses, the events of Spy Wednesday serve as a stark reminder of the path to the cross. It is a call to introspection and examination of one's own faith and actions. For many, it is a time to consider the ways in which they, too, might have betrayed their beliefs or ideals in pursuit of lesser things.

In the end, Spy Wednesday is not just about the betrayal of Jesus; it is about the potential for betrayal within each person. It is a day to reflect on the choices we make and the consequences they hold, not only for ourselves but for the wider community. As Holy Week unfolds, Spy Wednesday stands as a poignant reminder of the cost of betrayal and the value of redemption.

For those looking to delve deeper into the significance of this day and its place within the Holy Week, further reading and reflection can be found in various sources that explore the biblical and historical context of Judas's betrayal.

Judas Iscariot: The Enigmatic Disciple

Judas Iscariot remains one of the most enigmatic and talked-about figures in Christian theology. His name is synonymous with betrayal, and his actions have been dissected and debated through the centuries. Judas was one of the original Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ and is known for betraying Jesus to the Sanhedrin in the Garden of Gethsemane.

The motivations behind Judas's betrayal are complex and multifaceted. The Gospel of Matthew suggests that Judas's betrayal was motivated by greed, as he betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. However, the Gospel of Luke and the Gospel of John imply a more supernatural cause, suggesting that Judas was possessed by Satan at the time of the betrayal.

After the betrayal, filled with remorse, Judas attempted to return the money and hanged himself. The chief priests used the returned silver to buy a field, known as the "Field of Blood," to bury strangers in, which further associated Judas with the concept of blood money.

Judas's legacy is a subject of significant theological debate. Some view his betrayal as an unforgivable sin, while others interpret it as a necessary part of the divine plan for salvation. The Gnostic Gospel of Judas, considered heretical by the proto-orthodox Church, presents a different perspective, portraying Judas's actions as being in obedience to Jesus's instructions and suggesting that he understood Jesus's true teachings.

Historically, Judas' existence is widely accepted among secular historians, though some debate remains. His story is a powerful narrative that has been used to explore themes of loyalty, greed, free will, and divine providence.

Judas's portrayal has also had cultural and social implications. Since the Middle Ages, he has sometimes been used as a personification of the Jewish people, and his story has been employed to justify antisemitism—a misuse of the narrative that has been widely condemned.

The figure of Judas Iscariot challenges believers and scholars alike to consider the complexities of human nature and the profound themes of redemption and grace that are central to the Christian faith. His story serves as a reminder of the consequences of our actions and the transformative power of forgiveness.

Today we see many Judas's. They are seen in Catholics, especially clergy who use their ordained ministry to profit. How many times do we see priests refuse to say a Mass for someone just because they did not offer a Mass stipend?  How many times have we seen priests literally stalk a pastor of a parish for his stipend after saying Mass?  With the onset of social media, how many priests do we see on TikTok, Instagram, and so on making all kinds of content in order to generate money?  In more extreme cases, how many times have we seen priests "sell blessings" and other religious or sacramental acts?  How many times have we seen priests deny baptism or other liturgical functions until they received the envelope with donations?  In other moments, they may hound a family for it until they obtain it. 

We see it in Catholics in religious life who use this life to profit and to live comfortably free from secular responsibilities and work.  How many times do we see religious sisters or brothers living "in habit" without internalizing their charism?  They sit around all day simply "living the life" without it really transforming them internally.  Once the "religious life" of the day is over, they throw aside their habit, drink a beer or watch television?  How many times do we see religious sisters or brothers offer their expertise or services for money?  They charge their fellow religious or Catholics.  

Moreover, we see it in Catholics among the lay faithful who set aside their faith in favor of other things.  They prefer to go to work or another event instead of Mass.  They use their faith to make money either directly or via blogs, podcasts, and other mediums.  How many times do we see catechists, youth ministers, musicians, and others demand a salary from the Church for their skills? When did the apostles charge anyone for their ministerial work? Judas's are present among those who arrive late to Mass and leave early.  This is what Judas did at the Last Supper. He did not care for it and just left early. How many times do we see Catholics get up and leave the Mass before it has ended? 

Judas is still alive and well in the Catholic Church and in every other denomination.  We see "pastors" of "megachurches" with mansions, expensive cars, jet planes, and large salaries.  They preach a "gospel of prosperity" instead of the Gospel of the Poor that Jesus preached.  This is Judas alive and well in Christianity.  These Catholics, Protestants, and Eastern Non-Catholic Christians are the Judas's of today. They inflict pain on Jesus over and over with their love of money and hypocrisy.  

Let us NOT be Judas Iscariot.  Stick with Jesus and give the silver coins away.  

Spy Wednesday 2021

Today is Spy Wednesday. Those religious people who live double lives are like Judas who betrayed Christ. As you may know, Spy Wednesday is the day when Judas Iscariot conspired against his Lord and Master, Jesus Christ (Mark 14:10-11). Today, there are many ways we can conspire against Jesus.  Many Christians have abandoned faith in God during this time of the alleged pandemic. Immediately, churches were closed and public liturgies were suspended. Many have supported this action by the bishops. To them, it looks like "protection" from a contagion, however, to real Christians, it is a betrayal and lack of faith in Christ. 

To add insult to injury, many of them have tried to justify the actions by claiming that keeping Masses active or churches open will endanger others or even kill them. This kind of sophism is disgusting and something that can only derive from the devil itself.  How can one claim that going to Mass endangers others or even kills them?  This is very silly to state, for the sake of being polite. Where is their faith? Do they think God would allow the spread of contagion via the Mass or Sacraments?  Have they not read Psalm 91:1-8 which states:

"Whoever goes to the LORD for safety,
whoever remains under the protection of the Almighty,
can say to him,
“You are my defender and protector.
You are my God; in you I trust.”
He will keep you safe from all hidden dangers
and from all deadly diseases.
He will cover you with his wings;
you will be safe in his care;
his faithfulness will protect and defend you.
You need not fear any dangers at night
or sudden attacks during the day
or the plagues that strike in the dark
or the evils that kill in daylight.
A thousand may fall dead beside you,
10,000 all around you,
but you will not be harmed.
You will look and see
how the wicked are punished."

Even a year after the Covid 19 Coronavirus pandemic, we still see some religious leaders exaggerate their concern for contamination.  There have even been cases of priests and even Protestant leaders kicking members out of their communities for not wearing a mask.  Communion on the tongue is treated as dangerous.  Some bishops and pastors are even prohibiting processions.  What is troubling is that protestors are allowed o gather by the 10s of thousand, spring breakers are allowed to frolic on beaches, but the Church is scared to exist?  How can this be?  There are other ways we betray Jesus just like Judas did. Going to Church and then sinning as if the calls for repentance of the confiteor means nothing is one way. Being "religious," yet not being "religious" is hypocrisy. This kind of practice of religion is worthless (James 1:26). If we think that going to Mass all dressed up or walking around with a Rosary or Bible and not applying their essence in our lives pleases God, then we are fooling ourselves (Matthew 6:1).

This type of worship is in vain and offends God (Matthew 15:7-9).  The reason why we go to Mass, pray daily, receive the Sacraments, attend retreats and other religious events is to help us become more Christ-like. If we are to live in Christ who is the truth, then we too must be truthful (John 14:6, CCC para. 2468). Duplicity in living the Christian life serves no purpose to the worship of God and our sanctification. I call this an implicit form of atheism that mocks God.  The reason being is because we sometimes think we believe in God and are religious, but deep down we just do it as an obligation or to get attention; this rejects God (Titus 1:16). Sacred Scripture clearly states that those who reject God or lack belief in Him are fools (Psalms 53:1, Psalms 14:1).

Presenting an external devotion to God while not externalizing it is what Judas Iscariot did.  He was called by the Lord, traveled with Him, and even was at the Last Supper with Him, yet He did not internalize who this Lord was (John 1:10). We must not be like Judas who left early to collect his money. Either we are with God or with the world, there is no middle ground (Matthew 6:24). We only fool ourselves into thinking we are religious when in fact we are not deep down. God is never fooled or mocked (Galatians 6:7).  As we get closer to the Paschal Triduum, let us focus on ourselves and where we stand before God.  Are we truly transforming within, or has Catholicism become a ritual run by unconsciousness and conditioning?  We must ask ourselves these questions.

Our faith must be genuine. As many of you know, the first Mass was at the Last Supper. Judas left the supper early. He was the first one to leave Mass early.  Why did he leave?  He left to collect his money and set up the betrayal he was conceiving.  Judas took the bread, the Body of Christ, and left (John 13:30). While there may be valid reasons we can leave Mass, we must always try to avoid doing so. We must not be a spy for Satan. We must not be fake Catholics like Judas who followed Jesus as an opportunist.  We must not sell out Christ for the things of this world. 

Let us meditate on where we stand before God.  Are we like Judas seeking silver coins?

Spy Wednesday: Betraying Christ for Covid-19 Coronavirus

Today is Spy Wednesday. Those religious people who live double lives are like Judas who betrayed Christ. As you may know, Spy Wednesday is the day when Judas Iscariot conspired against his Lord and Master, Jesus Christ (Mark 14:10-11). Today, there are many ways we can conspire against Jesus.  Many Christians have abandoned faith in God during this time of alleged pandemic. Immediately, churches were closed and public liturgies were suspended. Many have supported this action by the bishops. To them, it looks like "protection" from a contagion, however, to real Christians, it is a betrayal and lack of faith in Christ. 

To add insult to injury, many of them have tried to justify the actions by claiming that keeping Masses active or churches open will endanger others or even kill them. This kind of sophism is disgusting and something that can only derive from the devil itself.  How can one claim that going to Mass endangers others or even kills them?  This is very silly to state, for the sake of being polite. Where is their faith? Do they think God would allow the spread of a contagion via the Mass or Sacraments?  Have they not read Psalm 91:1-8 which states:

"Whoever goes to the LORD for safety,
whoever remains under the protection of the Almighty,
can say to him,
“You are my defender and protector.
You are my God; in you I trust.”
He will keep you safe from all hidden dangers
and from all deadly diseases.
He will cover you with his wings;
you will be safe in his care;
his faithfulness will protect and defend you.
You need not fear any dangers at night
or sudden attacks during the day
or the plagues that strike in the dark
or the evils that kill in daylight.
A thousand may fall dead beside you,
10,000 all round you,
but you will not be harmed.
You will look and see
how the wicked are punished."

There are other ways we betray Jesus just like Judas did. Going to Church and then sinning as if the calls for repentance of the confiteor means nothing is one way. Being "religious," yet not being "religious" is hypocrisy. This kind of practice of religion is worthless (James 1:26). If we think that going to Mass all dressed up or walking around with a Rosary or Bible and not applying their essence in our lives pleases God, then we are fooling ourselves (Matthew 6:1).

This type of worship is in vain and offends God (Matthew 15:7-9).  The reason why we go to Mass, pray daily, receive the Sacraments, attend retreats and other religious events is to help us become more Christ-like. If we are to live in Christ who is the truth, then we too must be truthful (John 14:6, CCC para. 2468). Duplicity in living the Christian life serves no purpose to the worship of God and our sanctification. I call this an implicit form of atheism which mocks God.  The reason being is because we sometimes think we believe in God and are religious, but deep down we just do it as an obligation or to get attention; this rejects God (Titus 1:16). Sacred Scripture clearly states that those who reject God or lack belief in Him are fools (Psalms 53:1, Psalms 14:1).

Presenting an external devotion to God while not externalizing it is what Judas Iscariot did.  He was called by the Lord, traveled with Him and even was at the Last Supper with Him, yet He did not internalize who this Lord was (John 1:10). We must not be like Judas who left early to collect his money. Either we are with God or with the world, there is no middle ground (Matthew 6:24). We only fool ourselves into thinking we are religious when in fact we are not deep down. God is never fooled or mocked (Galatians 6:7).  As we get closer to the Paschal Triduum, let us focus on ourselves and where we stand before God.  Are we truly transforming within, or has Catholicism become a ritual run by unconsciousness and conditioning?  We must ask ourselves these questions.

Our faith must be genuine. As many of you know, the first Mass was at the Last Supper. Judas left the supper early. He was the first one to leave Mass early.  Why did he leave?  He left to collect his money and set up the betrayal he was conceiving.  Judas took the bread, the Body of Christ and left (John 13:30). While there may be valid reasons we can leave Mass, we must always try to avoid doing so. We must not be a spy for Satan. We must not be a fake Catholic like Judas who followed Jesus as an opportunist.  We must not sell out Christ for the things of this world. 

Let us meditate on where we stand before God.  Are we like Judas seeking silver coins?

Spy Wednesday: Seeking the World's Coins

Today is Spy Wednesday. Those religious people who live double lives are like Judas who betrayed Christ. As you may know, Spy Wednesday is the day when Judas Iscariot conspired against his Lord and Master, Jesus Christ (Mark 14:10-11). Today, there are many ways we can conspire against Jesus.

Going to Church and then sinning as if the calls for repentance of the confiteor means nothing is one way. Being "religious," yet not being "religious" is hypocrisy. This kind of practice of religion is worthless (James 1:26). If we think that going to Mass all dressed up or walking around with a Rosary or Bible and not applying their essence in our lives pleases God, then we are fooling ourselves (Matthew 6:1).

This type of worship is in vain and offends God (Matthew 15:7-9).  The reason why we go to Mass, pray daily, receive the Sacraments, attend retreats and other religious events is to help us become more Christ-like. If we are to live in Christ who is the truth, then we too must be truthful (John 14:6, CCC para. 2468). Duplicity in living the Christian life serves no purpose to the worship of God and our sanctification. I call this an implicit form of atheism which mocks God.  The reason being is because we sometimes think we believe in God and are religious, but deep down we just do it as an obligation or to get attention; this rejects God (Titus 1:16). Sacred Scripture clearly states that those who reject God or lack belief in Him are fools (Psalms 53:1, Psalms 14:1).

Presenting an external devotion to God while not externalizing it is what Judas Iscariot did.  He was called by the Lord, traveled with Him and even was at the Last Supper with Him, yet He did not internalize who this Lord was (John 1:10). We must not be like Judas who left early to collect his money. Either we are with God or with the world, there is no middle ground (Matthew 6:24). We only fool ourselves into thinking we are religious when in fact we are not deep down. God is never fooled or mocked (Galatians 6:7).  As we get closer to the Paschal Triduum, let us focus on ourselves and where we stand before God.  Are we truly transforming within, or has Catholicism become a ritual run by unconsciousness and conditioning?  We must ask ourselves these questions.

Our faith must be genuine. As many of you know, the first Mass was at the Last Supper. Judas left the supper early. He was the first one to leave Mass early.  Why did he leave?  He left to collect his money and set up the betrayal he was conceiving.  Judas took the bread, the Body of Christ and left (John 13:30). While there may be valid reasons we can leave Mass, we must always try to avoid doing so. We must not be a spy for Satan. We must not be a fake Catholic like Judas who followed Jesus as an opportunist.  We must not sell out Christ for the things of this world. 

Let us meditate on where we stand before God.  Are we like Judas seeking silver coins?
  

Spy Wednesday: Selling Out Christ

Spy Wednesday is the day when Judas Iscariot gathered with the Sanhedrin and plotted to betray Jesus for 30 silver coins.  Judas is the Disciple we never want to imitate.  He betrayed Jesus for material things - money. In today's world, we sometimes get caught up in consumerism.  We want want and want.  Companies market to us all kinds of things and in a sense brainwashing us to think that we need them.  We sometimes forget God.  We do not pray or go to Mass because we are busy using our gadgets, cell phones and what not.

This is the unfortunate reality in today's world. Everyone does not seem to have time for anything, especially prayer. We see the fruit of this in children who have no discipline, adults who grow up selfish, violence and the destruction of the family. We put other things before God and the Catholic faith. Today, religion is seen as a "thing" we do on the weekend. It is something only for Sunday. We go to Mass, complete our "obligation" and run out and repeat the same daily rituals of the week.  No conversion takes place. Everything becomes mechanical. Many times, we see Catholics leave Mass early just to take on another appointment.

As many of you know, the first Mass was at the Last Supper. Judas left the supper early. He was the first one to leave Mass early.  Why did he leave?  He left to collect his money and set up the betrayal he was conceiving.  Judas took the bread, the Body of Christ and left (John 13:30). While there may be valid reasons we can leave Mass, we must always try to avoid doing so. We must not be a spy for Satan. We must not be a fake Catholic like Judas who followed Jesus as an opportunist.  We must not sell out Christ for the things of this world.   

Let us meditate on where we stand before God.  Are we like Judas seeking silver coins?



 

Spy Wednesday & the Fool

Today Spy Wednesday and April Fools day coincided.  As I was pranking people all day today, something came to my mind.  Those religious people who live double lives are fools. As you may know, Spy Wednesday is the day when Judas Iscariot conspired against his Lord and Master, Jesus Christ (Mark 14:10-11). Today, there are many ways we can conspire against Jesus.

Going to Church and then sinning as if the calls for repentance of the confiteor means nothing is one way. Being "religious," yet not being "religious" is hypocrisy. This kind of practice of religion is worthless (James 1:26). If we think that going to Mass all dressed up or walking around with a Rosary or Bible and not applying their essence in our lives pleases God, then we are fooling ourselves (Matthew 6:1).

This type of worship is in vain and offends God (Matthew 15:7-9).  The reason why we go to Mass, pray daily, receive the Sacraments, attend retreats and other religious events is to help us become more Christ-like. If we are to live in Christ who is the truth, then we too must be truthful (John 14:6, CCC para. 2468). Duplicity in living the Christian life serves no purpose to the worship of God and our sanctification. I call this an implicit form of atheism which mocks God.  The reason being is because we sometimes think we believe in God and are religious, but deep down we just do it as an obligation or to get attention; this rejects God (Titus 1:16). Sacred Scripture clearly states that those who reject God or lack belief in Him are fools (Psalms 53:1, Psalms 14:1).

Presenting an external devotion to God while not externalizing it is what Judas Iscariot did.  He was called by the Lord, traveled with Him and even was at the Last Supper with Him, yet He did not internalize who this Lord was (John 1:10). We must not be like Judas who left early to collect his money. Either we are with God or with the world, there is no middle ground (Matthew 6:24). We only fool ourselves into thinking we are religious when in fact we are not deep down. God is never fooled or mocked (Galatians 6:7).  As we get closer to the Paschal Triduum, let us focus on ourselves and where we stand before God.  Are we truly transforming within, or has Catholicism become a ritual run by unconsciousness and conditioning?    

Spy Wednesday

Spy Wednesday is the day when Judas Iscariot gathered with the Sanhedrin and plotted to betray Jesus for 30 silver coins.  Judas is the Disciple we never want to imitate.  He betrayed Jesus for material things - money.

In today's world, we sometimes get caught up with consumerism.  We want want and want.  Companies market to us all kinds of things and in a sense brainwashing us to think that we need them.  We sometimes forget God.  We don't pray or go to Mass because we are busy using our gadgets, cell phones and what not.

Let us meditate on where we stand before God.  Are we like Judas seeking silver coins?