Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men?

The Gospel from today’s Mass (John 13:21-33; 36-39), Jesus looks into the heart of Judas.  And few excerpts:

[21] When Jesus had thus spoken, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, “Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.” [22] The disciples looked at one another, uncertain of whom he spoke. [23] One of his disciples, whom Jesus loved, was lying close to the breast of Jesus; [24] so Simon Peter beckoned to him and said, “Tell us who it is of whom he speaks.” [25] So lying thus, close to the breast of Jesus, he said to him, “Lord, who is it?” [26] Jesus answered, “It is he to whom I shall give this morsel when I have dipped it.” So when he had dipped the morsel, he gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot. [27] Then after the morsel, Satan entered into him. Jesus said to him, “What you are going to do, do quickly.” [28] Now no one at the table knew why he said this to him. [29] Some thought that, because Judas had the money box, Jesus was telling him, “Buy what we need for the feast”; or, that he should give something to the poor. [30] So, after receiving the morsel, he immediately went out; and it was night.

Sometimes, we rush over this event, eager to move on to the drama of the Passion and the glory of the Resurrection.  We shouldn’t.  Consider:

• It is not obvious to any of the disciples that Judas is a traitor.  But Jesus knows.
• Jesus not only knows, but He shows that His knowledge transcends time.  Jesus knows that Judas will carry out his betrayal.
• Earlier in the evening, Jesus has already quoted Psalm 41:9, saying “‘He who ate my bread has lifted his heel against me’.  I tell you tins know before it takes place that when it does take place you may believe that I am He” (John 13:18-19).
• Though Jesus is sharing the Eucharistic meal with Judas, Judas allows Satan to enter into him (John 13:27).
• Judas, despite being if the light of God Himself, and sharing in the meal, goes out into the darkness.

Today in the world, Jesus continues to allow the darkness of Satan to exist.  Jesus lives in His Church and Satan continues to rage against it.

Even those who eat at Christ’s table today, professing to be practicing Catholics, betray Him by scandalous acts; think of the prominent politicians who attempt to profess Christ and advocate for abortion and contraception; think of homosexual priests who prey on young boys and those who cover up their abominations; think of all the everyday people who think that they are smart enough and moral enough to “dissent” from teachings of Christ’s Church.  All share in the betrayal of Christ.

Each man must search his own heart with a searing gaze: “Am I a Judas?”

If you don’t know, ask Jesus.  He knows.

Pray that all hear the call of Christ during this Holy Week and turn from darkness.