Lenten Greed

 

 

“Show me the money” was a popular statement from the movie, Jerry Maguire.  That phrase caught a lot of traction and can still be heard 25 years later.  Money is one of those topics people can be very passionate about.  Some people flaunt the money that they have, others keep it tightly tucked away without anyone knowing.  We have all heard stories of a person who lived a very meager life only to have had millions in the ‘bank account’ when they left this earth.  What we all choose to do with our money is up to each of us.  

Today’s verse focuses on the actions of Judas Iscariot, known to be the disciple who turned Jesus over to the authorities and thus beginning the series of events that would lead to Jesus’ death.  Judas was the treasurer for the disciples.  He held the money, therefore, it wasn’t that outlandish that he was the disciple that would say ‘show me the money’ in order to turn in Jesus.  Judas took the 30 pieces of silver and, in exchange, would  bring Jesus to the hands of those who would kill him.

Judas is looked upon with disdain for his actions.  He didn’t really earn the money he received for hard work and dedication.  It was actually the opposite.  He received the money for betraying our Jesus, showing his lack of loyalty to the Kind of Kings.  All Judas had to do was go to the authorities and tell them where Jesus was.  Easy Money!! 

Although we may look upon Judas with disdain, have there been ways we have betrayed our Jesus just as easily?  Maybe, in order to fit in, you did something that you knew was wrong.  Perhaps others were using God’s name in vain, and you did so as well.  Did you look for the ‘easy money’ knowing that the way you were earning it was not necessarily through hard work?  I am certain that there are many more examples each of us can share when we have betrayed our Jesus, either in words or actions.

The good news is that Jesus doesn’t keep a list of right and wrong.  As Jeremiah 31:34 states, “God says, “I…will remember sines no more.”  No matter how poorly we act or how wrong the actions are that we display, God doesn’t hold that against us.  He doesn’t act toward us the way He should, but forgives us and holds us close to him.  As we try to live lives that are pleasing to God, we will fail, for we are fallen sinners.  The good news comes from the cross and the empty tomb, knowing that our betrayals, which we need to repent, will be wiped clean when we see Jesus face to face in paradise.  Keep the simple faith!

Dearest Jesus, help us to stay on the path you have provided.  Help us to not be greedy like Judas and hold us away from actions that betray you.  May we stay on the path of righteousness and glorify your name.  Amen!