2.
Jesus is Betrayed by Judas and Arrested
Opening Prayer
We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you; by your holy cross, you have redeemed the world. Help us to walk in your steps. Amen.
Reflection Questions
- Here Jesus declares “I AM he.” This phrase dates all the way back to Moses and the burning bush. Why did this phrasing get Jesus in trouble?
- When reading, it is easier to side with the good guys than the bad. As confession, think of a time that you have betrayed Christ.
- It is hard to forgive people to hurt us. Think of someone who hurt you and process a next step you can take to offer forgiveness.
The Sacred Story
John 18:1-9
When Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples across the brook Kidron, where there was a garden, which he and his disciples entered. Now Judas, who betrayed him, also knew the place, for Jesus often met there with his disciples. So Judas, having procured a band of soldiers and some officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, went there with lanterns and torches and weapons. Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them, “Whom do you seek?” They answered him, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus said to them, “I am he.” Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them. When Jesus said to them, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. So he asked them again, “Whom do you seek?” And they said, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. So, if you seek me, let these men go.” This was to fulfill the word that he had spoken: “Of those whom you gave me I have lost not one.”
A Reflection of the Garden
A Prayer
Lord Jesus, we confess that, like Judas, our actions and inactions; our thoughts and behaviors; our intentions and apathy grieve you. We fail you. And, even our confession is laced with sin. Forgive my betrayal, Lord as I walk your way to the cross you bore for me. Amen.