The disciples looked at one another, uncertain of whom he spoke.-John 13:22
Jesus had just told the twelve that one of them would betray him. There does not seem to be any indication from the text that any of them suspected Judas. They were twelve friends who had lived life together for a few years. They had no reason to be suspicious. When Jesus announced the betrayal, they were incredulous, filled with confusion, anxiety, and anger. They looked at one another, hoping to see the answer in the eyes of their friends.
Like the disciples, we have a hard time envisioning our friends betraying us. We assume the best of our friends, which is a good thing. Yet in reality, sometimes those closest to us—those we imagine to be the godliest—engage in unimaginable sins. A beloved pastor is accused of sexual misconduct and we think “That could never be true; I know him.” A child is accused of bullying a smaller child, and we say “My child would never do that. He is a good kid.” A woman whom you know to honest and good is arrested for embezzlement and you think “The police must have received false information. She’s the most honest person I know.” In reality, every one of us is capable of shocking sin and betrayal. Wise people trust, but not uncritically. We must be shrewd to the remaining vestiges of sin, even in those whom we hold in high esteem.
Prayer
Jesus, you are our trust and hope. We humans are fallible, broken, and sinful. Help us to never minimize our sin, nor believe that we are somehow incapable of treason against you or others. Help us to see others honestly yet grant us supernatural grace in the midst of trials, just as you have done with us so many times. Amen.
Jason Kanz 