In this poignant moment from the Gospel of Matthew, we witness the unfathomable love and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Despite knowing that Judas Iscariot, one of his own disciples,” was about to betray him with a kiss, Jesus addressed him as a “friend.”

Imagine the weight of betrayal bearing down on Jesus’ heart at that moment. Yet, he responded with love and compassion, acknowledging Judas as a friend. Calling Judas “friend” reveals the depth of Jesus' love and forgiveness, transcending human understanding.

Jesus knew the pain and anguish that lay ahead— the agony of the cross, the weight of humanity’s sins pressing upon him. Yet, even in the face of such betrayal and suffering, he chose to extend grace and mercy.

The love of Christ surpasses our comprehension. It is a love that embraces even those who would betray him. It is a love that sees beyond our faults and failures, offering forgiveness before we even ask.

As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate his example of love and forgiveness. Just as Jesus extended grace to Judas, we are called to extend grace to those who hurt us, to love our enemies, and to pray for those who persecute us.

Let us reflect on the profound truth revealed in Matthew 26:50— that even in the midst of betrayal, Jesus extends his hand in friendship. May we, too, embody this radical love and forgiveness in our lives, as we strive to follow in the footsteps of our Savior.

Dear Heavenly Father,

I enter Your courts with praise and thanksgiving for Your heart of forgiveness toward me even when I don’t deserve it. When I experience Your forgiveness and take note of the times in the Bible that You forgave those who wronged You, my respect for You grows even more. As I see Jesus’ heart of compassion, even for those who led him to the cross, I am reminded that I, too, need to live a life of forgiveness toward those who have betrayed me. Father, please help me to forgive and pray for those who despitefully use me. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Today, spend time in prayer, asking God to let all bitterness, wrath, anger, and slander be taken out of your heart, mind, and mouth. Ask Him to help you be kind, and tenderhearted, and to walk in a forgiving spirit toward others just as He has forgiven you. (See Ephesians 4:31-32)