Judas Ate Too

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Judas Ate Too

by Beth Penny

Throughout time, being called a “Judas” has become the universal symbol for betrayal. Whenever we hear the word “Judas,” our mind always goes to the ultimate act of betrayal in history. Judas betrayed Jesus for a mere thirty pieces of silver. Making a lot of assumptions, thirty pieces of silver would be worth only around $200 today. When Zechariah was sharing God with Israel, He asked to be paid for his work and was rewarded with the measly sum of thirty pieces of silver—already a widely known insult.

About half a century after that, we come to Jesus and His disciples. Just hours before the ultimate betrayal, the disciples are gathering in the upper room to keep themselves safe from the growing danger that was in the streets for believers. They have gathered for what Jesus knows is His last meal with them. Keep in mind, Jesus also knew Judas had already agreed to betray Him. It is important to know that communal meals were eaten at a low table and on the floor, so it was just good manners to wash your feet before eating since sandaled feet were very dirty from the dust of the roads.

Getting ready for this, the disciples were arguing or discussing among themselves who was the best. Who did Jesus love the most? Now, enter Jesus. In the utmost act of servitude, He washes their feet, even Judas. Ironically, their argument of who was the greatest among them lost all its valor. Jesus showed them a perfect example of humility. He came to them not as a King and someone revered but as a lowly servant. Serving them all, even Judas. Then came the meal, and they ate together, even Judas. Jesus knew— and told him that He knew—Judas had betrayed him. But Judas ate too.

Jesus not only set the example of humility and serving others for us, but He again showed us the ultimate act of forgiveness. He forgave Judas’s ultimate betrayal and allowed him to eat peacefully. In Matthew 5:43-44, Jesus had already told his followers and disciples, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, ‘Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.’” Sometimes wallowing in our sin, we feel unlovable and unforgivable. We feel that our shame is so heavy and dark, that Jesus could never forgive what we have done. Boy, are we wrong. Jesus showed us the ultimate example of forgiveness in that last meal. I am thankful that even Judas ate too.

About The Author Beth Penny has taught English at Model High School since 1997. There she is also the Yearbook adviser and the Special Education Department Chair. She and her husband, Chad, have four children.