Then when Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, saying, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” They said, “What is that to us? See to it yourself.” And throwing down the pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself. ~ Matthew 27:3-5
As Jesus knew he would, Judas betrayed Jesus to the chief priests and elders for thirty pieces of silver. What was his motive? Did he do it only for the money? Or was he trying to force Jesus to reveal Himself as the Messiah to save Himself? When Jesus was condemned, Judas changed his mind—but it was too late. Unlike Peter, who repented after denying Jesus three times, Judas condemned himself and took his own life. Could he have been forgiven if he had repented and asked for forgiveness? We know that we can always be forgiven when we sin. Instead of condemning ourselves to hopelessness—as we often do, we need to recognize God’s grace and mercy, confess, change our ways, and be forgiven.
Lord, sometimes I condemn myself and think I’m not worthy of forgiveness when I sin. And it’s true that I’m not worthy of forgiveness—no one is, but You are always ready to forgive me when I truly repent. Give me true repentance for my own sins and the willingness to forgive those who harm me. In the name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior. Amen.