April 15, 2025: When Love is Tested!

“Very truly I tell you, one of you is going to betray me.” (John 13:21)

It was the Last Supper — a sacred, tender moment between Jesus and His disciples. He had just washed their feet, an act of deep humility and love. But now His spirit is troubled. “One of you will betray me,” He says. The room falls silent. Shock. Confusion. Denial.

Even in this most intimate setting, the shadows creep in — betrayal by Judas and denial by Peter.

The Pain of Betrayal

Judas was not a stranger. He was one of the Twelve. He had walked with Jesus, eaten with Him, seen His miracles, heard His heart. And yet, he chose to hand over his friend for silver.

What makes betrayal so painful is that it comes from someone close. Someone who knew your love.

A Story to Remember

I once heard a story of a priest who spent years mentoring a young man in his parish — guiding him through school, praying with him, even supporting him financially when his family was struggling. The young man looked up to him like a father. But years later, the priest was falsely accused — and this same young man testified against him under pressure from others, knowing the truth yet choosing silence. The priest was heartbroken, not just at the accusation, but at the silence of someone he had trusted. Years later, the young man returned, tears in his eyes, asking for forgiveness. And the priest — like Christ — embraced him without hesitation.

That is the kind of love Jesus shows in this passage.

The Sting of Denial

Peter, full of zeal, says, “Lord, I will lay down my life for you.” But Jesus knows. “Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” Not once. Not twice. Three times.

Peter's denial was not planned. It came in a moment of fear. And it can happen to any of us — in conversations where we remain silent about our faith, in choices where we choose comfort over truth.

The Constant Love of Christ

Despite betrayal and denial, Jesus does not withdraw His love. He shares the meal. He washes their feet. And after the resurrection, He goes after Peter, calling him back with gentleness and grace.

His love is not withdrawn because of our failures. In fact, it reaches deeper when we fall.

A Call to Examine Our Hearts

This Gospel invites each of us to ask:

• Have I betrayed Jesus in small, hidden ways?

• Do I deny Him in moments of pressure or fear?

• Am I willing to return, like Peter, and let His love restore me?

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, betrayed by a friend and denied by another, You still chose to love and forgive. Help me to be honest about my own weaknesses. Give me grace to remain faithful, and when I fall, give me the courage to return. Amen.