Day 26: March 21

Readings:

And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went to the chief priests, to betray Him to them. And when they heard, they rejoiced, and promised to give him silver; and he sought how he might opportunely betray Him. (Mark 14:10-11)

For the cupidity of gain and avarice has within it the desire not only to possess the whole world, but also to plunder and even to kill everyone for the sake of gain; indeed one impelled by such cupidity would commit murder for but little were not the laws a hindrance. Moreover, such a man in his possession of gold and silver regards himself as the greatest in power, however in external appearance he may seem otherwise, which shows that there is in avarice not only the love of the world, but also the love of self, and indeed the filthiest love of self. (Arcana Coelestia 4751)

Reflection:

The chief priests felt threatened by Jesus teaching about the genuine spiritual church, because their power was based on external rituals and offerings. Judas also was more motivated by the thought of gain than the eternal teachings of the Lord. Has following the Lord and spiritual life ever seemed like a threat to material gain or an easy comfortable life?.

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