But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages. ” He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it. John 12:4-6
It is easy to use Judas as the villain in every story. We know what he did and find it convenient to think He was always evil. But Jesus chose him, why would He pick someone like that as a disciple? Is it possible that Judas was different once and made bad choices over time?
As humans, we should be keenly aware that none of us are purely good and none of us are purely evil. It was almost certainly that way with Judas as well. However, rather than accepting Jesus’ offer of salvation, Judas became focused on himself and what being part of the group could do for him.
We must be careful that we don’t fall into the same trap, being more concerned with earthly things, even when they seem like loving activities. In the first story of Mary and Martha hosting Jesus (Luke 10:38-42), Martha is preoccupied with preparing the home and the meal – not bad things at all, but Jesus tells her Mary has made a better choice by sitting to listen to Him. We must take care to pay attention to our Savior first and foremost, hearing His teachings over any worldly activity.
Loving Lord, help us to focus on You before anything else. May all our actions flow from our relationship with You and not any desire of our own. Amen.