Jesus betrayal was bought for 30 pieces of silver. Yesterday I talked about how I betray and deny Jesus every day for my own comfort and ease. It seems harsh and it’s hard to look at those words. After all, it was never my intention! I love Jesus and I know that it is His sacrifice that enables me to be saved by grace but, I just don’t know how to be the person God wants me to be. The answer, of course, came from scripture.
Jesus, in the upper room with His disciples, told Peter that in just a short time he would deny their relationship. Peter could not accept this. None of us would. He pledged his own life with Jesus’ and was adamant about his devotion. But listen to Jesus:
“Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers. ” Peter said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with you both to prison and to death.” Jesus said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day, until you deny three times that you know me.” Luke 22:31-34
“Turn again” or flip the coin, look at the other side. We typically flip a coin to see who has the ball first or who does what no one wants to do. What happens if we flip the coin to see the other side of situations? When I see what is wrong in my life flip and see what God has given me and then be grateful for it. When I’m frustrated with someone, flip and realize they have their own sadness, fears and frustration. When I feel hopeless, flip and savor the promises that God has given me. When I don’t want to risk being humiliated by telling someone the Gospel, flip and remember the shame and humiliation of the cross. “Turn again” and when you do, you will have been sifted and will then be able to strengthen your brother. Flip the coin and begin to live in Christ.
It was coins that bought Jesus’ betrayal, but the betrayal was only one side of the story. The other side of the coin is the redemptive work of the cross and because of that I no longer live in fear. When I see the cross, then I am strong, brave and bold. When I flip the coin, I have a peace and hope that I can’t help but share.
Making Sense of it All 