Good morning! Have you ever done something that seemed like a good idea at the time, then later you have regrets? Maybe it was eating that piece of cake or box of cookies. Maybe it was something else that was a bit more trivial. While I am certain we can all come up with something, today we will read further in Matthew 27 about Judas’ regret. Enjoy today’s reading and your day.

BIBLE VERSE – Matthew 27:3-5 NLT
“³ When Judas, who had betrayed him, realized that Jesus had been condemned to die, he was filled with remorse. So he took the thirty pieces of silver back to the leading priests and the elders. ⁴ “I have sinned,” he declared, “for I have betrayed an innocent man.”

“What do we care?” they retorted. “That’s your problem.” ⁵ Then Judas threw the silver coins down in the Temple and went out and hanged himself.”

REFLECTION
Judas didn’t anticipate his actions would lead to Jesus being condemned of death. Judas’ consciousness was being distorted inside his heart and mind. While Judas felt remorse, we don’t read that he repented of his actions. We only read that Judas discarded the coins he gained for his help in the plot against Jesus and then he took his own life.

What’s different from Peter’s denial and Judas’ actions? With regard to Peter, after he denied Jesus for the third time he wept bitterly,  “Suddenly, Jesus’ words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows, you will deny three times that you even know me.” And he went away, weeping bitterly.” (Matthew 26:75 ) Peter had a repentant heart.

Sisters and brothers, for the things we may regret, maybe we can change the course of those actions or maybe it is too late, but what I want you to know is that Jesus Christ died for our sins so that we can be forgiven. This is our opportunity to leave our regrets and sins at the cross and ask the Lord Jesus for forgiveness of our sins. The act of forgiveness is offered freely to anyone who accepts Christ Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Do you believe? If so, then receive his forgiveness and turn away from those sins forever more. If the answer is no, keep praying for the Lord to reveal himself to you (I will be praying for you).

PRAYER
Father God, thank you for sending your son Jesus Christ to die on the cross for our sins. Thank you for forgiveness of sins so that we can be reconciled to you. Lord, forgive us for the sins we have committed (known and unknown). Lord, give us the strength to turn away from the things that have had us bound to sin and regret. Lord set us free. Lord, give us wisdom and discernment to walk in your ways. Lord, when challenges and suffering appear, let us sanctify in our hearts the love of Christ and be bold in our beliefs, standing firm to the hope we have in you and continue to do good. Lord, you are our hope and our anchor. Lord, keep us steady and our eyes focused on you. Equip us and lead us as we walk with you. Give us a repentant heart that loves and forgives as you do. In Jesus name, amen.