I often wonder how much 30 silver coins is really worth. In today's value the silver itself would be worth a couple of hundred dollars. In Jesus's time 30 pieces of silver is about the equivalent of 4 months of skilled labor.
It was obvious that Jesus knew what was going on. After all he was both God and Man. He knew there would be an unridden colt for his entrance into Jerusalem. He knew that there would be a room for he and his disciples to celebrate the Passover meal. When he choose Judas to be one on the 12, did he choose him knowing what he would do? Did Jesus choose Judas specifically to be his betrayer?
I think Jesus hoped when he made Judas one of his chosen, that Judas would embrace Jesus's mission. But God gave us all freewill and obviously there was enough doubt in Judas to allow Satan into his heart. Once that happened Jesus's fate was sealed. As was Judas's.
The part of the story that really is sad is how Judas reacted. After it was done and Jesus was taken away, Judas did realize he had done wrong. He went to the Chief Priests and tried to give the silver back. But he was looking for forgiveness from the wrong people. I do believe Jesus loved Judas as he loves each one of us. I do believe Jesus would have forgiven him.
Judas fell into deep despair, and eventually died alone by hanging.
Hopefully we can realize no matter what we may have done, Jesus's forgiveness is unlimited. And if we show faith in Him we will never be alone, even in death.
.jfif)
.jfif)
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