Justice for Judas

So when he had dipped the piece of bread, he gave it to Judas son of Simon Iscariot. After he received the piece of bread, Satan entered into him. Jesus said to him, ‘Do quickly what you are going to do.’ John 13:26b-27

Poor old Judas.  Every year during Holy Week we read about his betrayal of Jesus.  A decision written down in scripture, so that generation after generation can bemoan his lack of faith in Jesus.  I often feel sorry for him.

The consequences of Judas’ betrayal were quick and decisive - Jesus’ crucifixion and his own death.  Once Judas knew that he had failed and that he had been complicit in Satan’s plan he saw no other option but to end his life - all for 30 pieces of silver. 

Judas raises many questions in my mind.  Is Judas a pawn in God’s almighty plan - a necessary sacrifice for the greater good?  Where is the justice for Judas if he is predestined for eternal damnation?  Is his betrayal an act of free will, if not, is it just to punish him for it?  Many questions raised by one character that cause us to reflect on the place of evil in this world and a just response to it.

Reflecting on Judas also draws my awareness to my personal failings as I wonder how often I betray Jesus?  My thoughts, my actions and my words are often not worthy of a person who follows Jesus.  I know that I betray Christ every day, yet unlike Judas I know that I am forgiven.   Through the consequences of Judas’ betrayal my betrayals can be forgiven.  

A cursory glance at the newspaper reveals the consequences of evil in the world: unjust regimes, exploited people and abuse so horrific that it brings us to our knees.  Perpetrated by people who have, perhaps, like Judas had Satan enter them.  How do we respond to people who have committed these heinous crimes?  Do we condemn them, along with Judas, to eternal damnation or do we seek some form of reconciliation? 

The needs of the victim must come first but the perpetrator of the crime, the Judas, is still made in the image of God.   To damn them to hell without the offer of God’s forgiveness is a betrayal of the image of Christ in that person and the image of Christ in all of humanity.

This post is part of my contribution to the Favourable Time - Get it here!