Jesus had just announced to His disciples at the Last Supper that one of His twelve apostles would betray Him (Jn 13:21). "The disciples looked at one another, puzzled as to whom He could mean" (Jn 13:22). This is remarkable. These men had been together for three years. Although these men knew each other's strengths and weaknesses thoroughly, they were puzzled as to which of them might be a betrayer.

James and John had asked Jesus earlier to elevate them above the others. The rest became indignant. Jesus often had to remind them to be servants, not rulers.

So, either the apostles had truly learned their servant lessons well, or Judas appeared no different than the other apostles. None of the apostles, when looking at each other (Jn 13:22), said, "Is it Judas?" Rather, they asked Jesus, "Is it I, Lord?" Judas' weaknesses didn't look any different than their own weaknesses. After all, Judas for three years had cast out demons, prophesied, preached, and ministered at their side.

Satan entered Judas because he had laid the groundwork by his sins of stealing and his decision to turn to others rather than to Jesus. During Holy Week, Judas sought to betray rather than obey.

We all have a choice this Holy Week, and Holy Week will bring us to a point of decision. Will we humble ourselves and seek Jesus alone? Or will we think only of ourselves? Will we betray or obey?

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, September 28, 2015

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