By Andrew Williams
“Then Judas, the one who would betray him, said, “Surely you don’t mean me, Rabbi?” Jesus answered, “You have said so.” – Matthew 26:25 (NIV)
Good morning fellow disciples.
Matthew 26:25 captures a moment of intense dramatic irony. At the Last Supper, after Jesus declares that one of them will betray Him, Judas, already plotting his treachery, asks, “Surely you don’t mean me, Rabbi?” Jesus responds with a simple, devastatingly accurate statement: “You have said so.” This exchange reveals Judas’s attempt to conceal his true intentions, even while knowing that Jesus is fully aware of his plan. It speaks to the depths of self-deception and the futile attempt to hide one’s sin from God.
As a disciple, you may be tempted to hide your sin, to downplay your faults, or to present a false image of yourself to others. Like Judas, you may try to conceal your true intentions, even while knowing that God sees your heart. This passage reminds you that true freedom comes from honesty and transparency. It is essential to be honest with yourself, with God, and with trusted friends about your struggles and temptations. Remember that true intimacy with God cannot exist alongside deception and concealment.
This week, be honest with yourself about your struggles and temptations. Confess any sin to God and ask for His forgiveness and cleansing. Seek out a trusted friend or mentor with whom you can be vulnerable and share your heart. Remember that transparency and accountability are essential for spiritual growth and freedom.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I confess my tendency to hide my sin and to present a false image of myself to others. Forgive me for the times when I have been dishonest with myself, with you, or with others. Help me to be honest and transparent about my struggles and temptations. Surround me with trusted friends and mentors who can provide accountability and support. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
