Judas Iscariot is one of the lead players in today’s Gospel.  What will you give me if I betray Jesus? he asks the chief priests. The first part of the question struck me today as something I do not ask others–what will you give me? I do not often go there even in my head. This–what is in it for me–attitude rarely crosses my mind. I do not need 30 pieces of silver for myself. I will more often wonder what is in this for the greater good?

As we approach the Passion and the Triduum, my mind turned to Mary. I am sure she did not ask herself what was in it for her. She may have wondered too what her yes meant for the world, not for herself. She loved her Son and knew that her heart would be pierced.

Judas is a lost soul on some levels. He betrayed Jesus for personal gain. Later in the story, we see that he uses an intimate act of a kiss to identify Christ to those who will arrest him. He is still striving to maintain his sense of power. Mary, on the other hand, has no power. A widow, she has given her life for her Son, following him wherever he went, even right to the cross.

Jesus and Mary teach us another way of looking at the world. We should not be asking what we will receive for something but what can I give. We see this in Week Four of the Exercises. Because I have already been given so much, what can I give in return? There is no seeking for gain, but rather giving for the greater good. May we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and Mary as models for our walk in life.

Reflection Questions

What question do you ask of Christ? Are you looking to get or give?

What deed have you done for the greater good lately?

Prayer

Jesus, you gave completely, never once asking what is in it for you. May I too be like you and risk everything for the greater good. Amen.