“When it was evening, Jesus reclined at the table with the Twelve disciples. [While they were eating], He said, “I tell you the truth, one of you will betray Me.”
Matthew 26:20-21
Spurred by an alcohol addiction and a wife of expensive taste, Aldrich Ames readily sold U.S. government secrets to Russia during the 1980s. Ames' work at the CIA gave him access to military intelligence and the names of every U.S. agent in operation against Russia – intelligence he willingly surrendered. His efforts earned him $4.6 million and resulted in the compromised position of 100 military operations and the execution of ten U.S. operatives. However, the money Ames received was short lived. He was tried, convicted and sentenced to life in prison for his treasonous crime.Betrayal—it comes in all forms, shapes and sizes. Relational betrayal with a family member, spouse or friend; occupational betrayal, professional betrayal and personal betrayal readily come to mind. In the story of the “Last Supper,” Jesus was faced with the ultimate betrayal from one of His very own for a mere 30-pieces of silver. Experts estimate that Judas could have been paid anywhere between $90 and $3,000 in today’s sums to betray Jesus and sell Him out. A small price to receive for eternal consequences that will never end.What’s fascinating about this story is that Jesus knew what Judas was going to do, yet He still served him, He still did life with him, He still fed him and He still washed his feet. Then, in that moment, Jesus calls Judas out before the other disciples, pointing the finger directly at Judas, identifying him as the one who would betray Him. He didn’t sweep it under the rug, He didn’t ignore it, He didn’t run away from it. He faced it head on, yet without violating His character and conduct. Ever been there yourself? Have you ever experienced betrayal from a close friend, spouse, or co-worker that you were relationally tied to? How did it make you feel? How did you respond; not react, but respond?I remind you today, as long as we live on this earth we will experience betrayal. Is it easy? No! Does it hurt? Yes! However, our response and how we choose to address it, is most important. I’m reminded of the following quote from an unknown person who said,“Better to have an enemy who slaps you in the face—than a friend who stabs you in the back.”Respond wisely.Be Worth Being,KevinSUBSCRIBE TO "OVER THE HUMP" DEVOTIONALKevin Burrell has worked in professional baseball as both a player and MLB scout for the past 39 years, and currently serves as an area scouting supervisor. Kevin was drafted in the 1st round of the 1981 free agent amateur draft (25th selection overall), and played ten years of professional baseball with four different organizations. He and his wife, Valerie, live in Sharpsburg, Ga.
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