Good Friday

There is a stark contrast between Palm Sunday and Good Friday, between the crowds shouting “Hosanna!” and “Crucify him!” 

We are all familiar with the events of Good Friday but did you realize the day started with a kiss?

Jesus Arrested 

Matthew 26:47-50

47 While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people.

48 Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.”

49 Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him.

50 Jesus replied,  “Do what you came for, friend.”Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him.

Friday started with a kiss. 

David Crowder wrote Surely We Can Change the first lyrics are:

And the problem is this: 
We were bought with a kiss 
But the cheek still turned 
Even when it wasn't hit.
And I don't know 
What to do with a love like that 
And I don't know 
How to be a love like that.

Judas comes and acts like a friend. He had told them the sign would be a kiss, which is still a common greeting in the Middle East. A slave would kiss the master’s feet. A servant would kiss the master’s hand. Friends would kiss each other’s cheek and close friends would embrace and kiss both cheeks. It was a sign of close affection and love. I don’t know about you, but that is hard for me to grasp. 

Heavenly Father, You are the symbol of love, mercy, and grace. You extend Your arms wide to embrace all who seek You, regardless of our past. Yet, as I ponder the actions of Judas, I am reminded of the fragility of loyalty and the darkness that can dwell within the human heart. I ask for Your forgiveness, Lord, for the times I have betrayed You through my own choices. In moments of weakness, when I have chosen convenience over commitment, I have kissed You with my lips while my heart wandered elsewhere. Amen