spy wednesday
“From that time on [Judas] kept looking for an opportunity to hand [Jesus] over.” —Matthew 26:16
St. Paul mentioned those who worm their way into Christian circles to “spy” on the freedom the disciples enjoyed in Christ (Gal 2:4). Judas Iscariot, “one of the Twelve” apostles (Mk 14:10), is the spy for which Spy Wednesday was named. Yet Jesus is likewise operating behind enemy lines this week. Jesus came “to destroy the devil’s works” (1 Jn 3:8). He gave His life by allowing Himself to be captured by the enemy. His true identity was revealed: “the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One” (Mk 14:61). Then all the torments of the enemy were unleashed upon Him.
Satan thought he had won — as Jesus was “crucified, died, and was buried” (see Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1085; see also the Apostles’ Creed). Then Jesus triumphed over death, and the enemy’s apparent victory was destroyed. The kingdom of darkness was defeated; Jesus and the kingdom of God triumphed. Jesus reclaimed what Satan stole from God’s Kingdom (see Col 2:14-15). By dying Jesus destroyed our death; by rising He restored our life (see Rm 6:4).
“What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?” Judas asked (Mt 26:15). Judas handed Jesus over to the enemy. Yet Jesus was not the victim of a spy. Jesus freely handed Himself over for our salvation (see Jn 10:17-18). During Holy Week, we are called to hand ourselves over to the Lord Jesus. If we don’t hand ourselves over to Him, we may hand Jesus over to those who scorn Him. Hand your life over to the Lord.
Prayer: Father, Your loyalty and love are always with me (Ps 89:25). Give me the grace to be loyal to You even to death.
Promise: “The Lord God is my Help, therefore I am not disgraced.” —Is 50:7 Praise: Margaret organized an all-night vigil to prepare for Easter.
Praise: Margaret organized an all-night vigil to prepare for Easter.
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
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