He Will Forgive 

   “Then Judas, his betrayer, seeing that Jesus had been condemned, deeply regretted what he had done.  He returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, saying, ‘I have sinned in betraying innocent blood.’” (Matt 27: 3 – 4) 

   I’ve often wondered why, if he deeply regretted his sin, Judas did not seek forgiveness for that sin.  He apparently never truly understood Jesus, or he would have known that forgiveness could have been his even for such a heinous crime.  Sadly, he not only failed to seek forgiveness for his sin of betrayal but then sinned again by killing himself.

   Though it may be difficult to believe, Jesus does not refuse forgiveness to any who come to Him in sincere sorrow for their sins, repenting, and desiring to change their lives.  “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.’ He replied to him, ‘Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.’” (Luke 23: 42 – 44).  Just as He forgave the thief on the cross, He would have forgiven Judas, and He will forgive us.

   Judas regretted his actions but didn’t have faith and trust in the mercy of Christ.  I think people sometimes stay away from church and reject faith because they think their sins are so many and so bad that they can never be forgiven.  They, like Judas, do not understand the mercy that Christ wishes to bestow on all who come to Him.

   “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 

Sometimes we think we can’t be forgiven.

Our sins weigh us down in guilt.

You came full of mercy and love.

Help us reach out to You for forgiveness. 

Amen