Judas
Wednesday of Holy Week is known as “Spy Wednesday” because this is the day we contemplate Judas and how he conspired to betray Jesus. I decided to write an acrostic poem using the name of Judas as a form of contemplation. As I worked through the letters in the name, I came to the realization that Judas is contradiction in true form. My original thought of Judas was the familiar negative view. He is the person responsible for Jesus’ capture and ultimately His death. I then switched gears and decided to view him with the eyes of mercy because the God I know is a merciful God. When I focused on mercy, I began to see Judas as the apostle who was aware of his role in salvation history, an apostle who was willing to take the heat, literally and figuratively, in order for God’s will to be done. I hope you enjoy the poems.
Negative view Positive view
J – jealous J – just sticking to salvific plan
U – undeterred U – unwavering
D – despised D – daring
A – adversary A – abdicating apostleship
S – selfish S – sacrifice
When I started writing this post, I never intended to create two different acrostic poems. However, as I sat contemplating the person of Judas, I wondered if he was really ALL bad. Something told me the answer was no. I was reminded of God, the creator of all things good. We were created in His image and likeness, therefore, we, the children of God, all possess good qualities, regardless of how difficult they may be to see at times. My challenge to you: the next time you find yourself focusing on the negative qualities someone possesses, switch gears and focus on the positive. No one is perfect, but there is good in all of us! God bless you!
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