#119. A kiss x
When we kiss someone it’s normally a signal that you have some kind of affection for that other but in our reading 'the kiss’ was a signal to arrest Jesus.
Mark 14:43-52 NIV
Just as He was speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, appeared. With him was a crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders. Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest Him and lead Him away under guard.” Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Rabbi!” and kissed Him. The men seized Jesus and arrested Him. Then one of those standing near drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear. “Am I leading a rebellion,” said Jesus, “that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me? Every day I was with you, teaching in the temple courts, and you did not arrest me. But the Scriptures must be fulfilled.” Then everyone deserted Him and fled. A young man, wearing nothing but a linen garment, was following Jesus. When they seized Him, he fled naked, leaving his garment behind. …
So, a kiss is normally a sign of affection but here it is the continuation of a betrayal from one of Jesus’ most trusted friends. Judas must have been highly regarded because not only was he chosen by Jesus to be a disciple, but then he was given the job of looking after the money, he was a trusted man!
All friendships at their core are based upon trust and here was Judas betraying one of his mates who was also his teacher and discipler. Why oh why did Judas do this? It comes down to something that we all suffer with. It’s called sin and when we sin, we doubt, question or deny God’s goodness.
So, those times when we disobey God we are saying that ‘our way’ or another course is better than the one that has been laid out for us by our loving Heavenly Father.
Maybe today already (and its only 11ish) you have wilfully acted as if there was no God or your way was better and you have kissed Jesus not with a kiss of affection but a kiss of betrayal. Know that He had to go to the cross for your betrayal but also know that His way was the only way to deal with your wilful acts of disobedience.
Much love
Tim x
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Tim
Pastor of Youth & Young Families