Jesus Betrayed

“Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him.”

John 13:3-5

“He washed the feet of His betrayer, and in doing so showed us that humility and love must extend even to our enemies.” 

— Augustine of Hippo

This week while teaching a Christian ethics course, the topic of forgiveness came up. People were very honest. Some hurts feel almost impossible to forgive.

I understand. I can’t imagine someone harming one of my children without my mind racing to revenge.

But the truth is this: It’s nearly impossible to truly forgive without first grasping what Jesus has forgiven us.

Today in Holy Week, Jesus knew Judas was going to betray Him. He knew the kiss of betrayal was coming. He knew the cross awaited.

Yet what did He do?

He washed Judas’ feet.

That act of humble service in the face of betrayal is supernatural. It still blows me away.

In our broken world, the only real answer to deep wounds is the supernatural forgiveness, humility, and servanthood that Jesus modeled — even for the man who would send an innocent Savior to a horrific death.

This is how we change the world: by showing love and forgiveness to those who wrong us.

We have all sinned against God. Jesus took every bit of that sin upon Himself. When we receive His forgiveness and follow His example, we can overcome even the deepest pain — but only through His strength.

It’s impossible without Him.