For three years Jesus has journeyed with, eaten dinners with, performed miracles with, and led His disciples. Those who were the closest to Him. Now one who He loved, one whose feet He just washed, one who He called friend was betraying Him. Judas was turning His back on Jesus and for what, a few pieces of silver. One can only imagine the anguish Jesus must have felt. One can only imagine the depth of His love for Judas knowing that Jesus knew this was going to happen. Judas had the opportunity to have life with Jesus, and he exchanged it for something much less.

Read: Matthew 26:14-16; 47-50; 69-75

14 Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests 15 and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. 16 From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over. 

47 While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people. 48 Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.” 49 Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him. 

50 Jesus replied, “Do what you came for, friend.”

At This Station

Question to ponder
How does it feel when you feel a friend has betrayed you? How have you turned your back on Jesus? What have you chosen to exchange for true life with Him? 

Action to take
Drop a coin in the tin cup and remember that Jesus love doesn’t end even considering our betrayal. Dip a cotton swab in the cup and taste the bitterness of betrayal.

Prayer
Father, your Son was willing to give up everything for us and even when I turn my back on Him, He still loves me. Thank you for showing us Your love in Your son and forgive me for the times I have made the foolish choice to exchange life with You for something much less. 

KiDS
Take a coin, place it in their bag, let them know that Jesus loves them so much that there is no amount of money He would swap for them.

Click “Complete & Continue” when you’re ready to move on to the next station.