Sometimes friends disappoint us. They turn against us. Sometimes they seek to harm or destroy our reputation or our ministry. They may even seek to destroy our life. Does Jesus care? Does He understand? In John 13:21 we read “After He had said this, Jesus was troubled in spirit…” Even though Jesus knew who would betray Him and even though it was determined from eternity past, He was still “troubled in spirit”. It was not easy for my Savior to acknowledge that one of His trusted chosen disciples would turn against Him. He was grieved that Judas Iscariot would do this. Jesus is always grieved when one turns his/her back on Him and turns against Him when it seem that that one was walking with Him. He understands how we, too, feel when our friends turn against us. He has been there. Hebrews 2:14-18 tells us that Jesus shares our humanity. He had to be made like us in every way, yet without sin. He is our merciful and faithful high priest. And “because He Himself suffered when He was tempted, He is able to help (to run, not walk, but to run to the aid of) those who are being tempted (and tried)”
“What you are about to do, do quickly.” Jesus did not want delay in this matter. It had been pre-determined; the decision had been made, the lot had been cast – “Don’t delay.” Judas alone knew what Jesus meant by that remark. Later the disciples would know. But Jesus protected them from any hard, difficult feelings and potential conflicts; and He protected Judas from exposure and potential embarrassment by not revealing the betrayer’s identity until the time of betrayal. Jesus’ kindness and sensitivity to the feelings of others extended to all concerned. He even called Judas “friend”. (Matthew 26:50) He has left us an example to follow in His steps; He has shown us that we need not turn in anger against the friend who turns against us. We are to forgive, “even as God in Christ Jesus forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32) Yes, Jesus does care; He does understand.
