Wednesday, March 22nd The Kiss

He approached Jesus to kiss him, but Jesus asked him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?”

Luke 22:47b-48

Read

Matthew 26:47-50

A kiss is sign of affection. In today’s world, kisses are exchanged only between the most intimate of friends, but the culture of the eastern world used kissing as a form of greeting. A man welcoming another man would kiss his cheek in much the same way a westerner would shake hands. Though the cultural practice of kissing is different, it still represents a show of pleasantry and care wherever it is used.

Judas needed to identify Christ in the darkness of night amidst Gethsemane’s olive trees. The soldiers laid in wait ready for the signal. The easiest way to single out the alleged Messiah was to simply walk up and greet Him. Most naturally that would involve a kiss. Then the betrayer could step aside and let the officials take over.

The concept of betrayal is one of building confidence and then breaking the trust that has been given. A kiss represents kindness and warmth, and with a kiss Judas turned on His Savior. It was the perfect tool of betrayal.

People can be courteous and pleasant enough on the outside, but how many betray the teachings and example of Christ on the inside? Jesus is looking for authentic integrity and faithfulness, not kisses.

Something to think about

1. Describe the scene in the Garden that night?

2. What do you think Judas was feeling when he kissed Jesus?

3. How have you been faithful to the Savior?