From Teetering to Victory: Lessons from Judas

Imagine reaching for something incredible, something that could change the world. Now imagine giving up because it wasn't happening fast enough.

That's the story of Judas, as seen through the visions of Saint Catherine Emmerich. 

I read two articles on patriachministries.com titled "Judas before the betrayal" and "Judas the betrayer". I am sharing my reflection here.

Summary

Judas joined Jesus with a burning desire to be part of something revolutionary, but he expected a different kind of revolution – one that brought wealth and worldly power.

Judas wasn't a bad person at heart. He was ready to serve, but his vision was clouded by impatience and a yearning for immediate gratification. When he didn't see the riches he craved, he started stealing from the group's funds. 

Jesus and Mary reached out to him, but Judas couldn't overcome his short-sighted thinking. He became weary of obedience and ultimately betrayed Jesus, leading to his own despair.

Reflection 

Two powerful lines from the article resonated with me:

• "Judas, on the contrary, was always vacillating, and at last fell into the abyss."
• "Had he overcome himself in little things, he wouldn't have fallen so low."

This got me thinking: How often do I waver in my own commitments? How often do I let impatience or negativity pull me back into old habits? What am I expecting from my journey with Jesus?

We can learn a crucial lesson from Judas: Our intention and choices, big and small, shape our path.

Call to Action 

We need to become steadfast in our walk with Jesus. We can't let our decisions be dictated by moods or temporary circumstances. We need to develop the strength to overcome temptations in the small moments before they snowball into major issues. By remaining resolute, we can grow closer to Jesus and experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from living a life guided by His teachings.

Remember, every victory over negativity, every act of kindness, is a step towards a brighter future. Don't let impatience or doubt lead you astray. Choose purpose, choose resilience, and choose the incredible path you were meant to walk.