One of the most bitter human experiences possible is that of being betrayed. The betrayal becomes even more painful when it is done by a person one is close to. The trust and confidence that was there before is replaced by anger, pain and deep disappointment. One is totally at a loss why someone you love and trust could turn on you and cause such deep pain. Betrayal is one experience that is difficult to forget and to forgive.
And yet, I am also guilty of having betrayed friends, family and total strangers in my life. It hurts when it is done to me but there are moments when I am guilty of this terrible sin too. Often, because of fear or selfishness or pride or the desire to get even, I have betrayed people I care for. And because of shame over what I have done or pride or even misplaced self-righteousness, I find if difficult to own up and ask forgiveness for what I have done.
Judas betrayed Jesus and so did Peter. One has gone done in history to become the icon of betrayal. The other, repentant, has become the model for a contrite person who makes amends the rest of his life for the wrong he had done. Jesus, on the cross, had only forgiveness for those who have betrayed him and done him wrong.
I pray for humility and strength to be able to ask forgiveness for all those whose trust and confidence I have betrayed. I pray for generosity of heart and love to forgive all those who have betrayed me, whether for real or out of my selfish imaginings.
When it was evening, he took his place with the twelve; and while they were eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me.” And they became greatly distressed and began to say to him one after another, “Surely not I, Lord?”
Matthew 26:14-25