A Certain Man and Judas!

Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Is 50: 4-9a; Mt 26: 14-25

Today’s Gospel highlights the contrast between the ‘certain man’ and Judas.

The two characters are mentioned in the Gospel with their own uniqueness. 

The ‘certain man’ to whom Jesus sends his disciples has earned the Lord’s respect that he confidently sends his disciples to make preparations for his Last Supper in the upper room. The certain man is not only nameless but also very loyal to Jesus’ love and friendship.

But Judas reveals his true character by the very question he asks, ‘What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?’ It is not just a betrayal of Jesus but a betrayal in exchange for something. Judas commoditized the life of someone who loved him most. 

While the unknown man is ready to offer hospitality towards Jesus, the known disciple prepares to betray him. Judas becomes a stark reminder that our proximity to Jesus does not automatically mean faithfulness to him. The ‘certain man’ was far away from Jesus, yet close to him in heart; Judas was near Jesus, yet ‘far away’ in heart.

Indeed, Jesus was betrayed by Judas. But the betrayal that led to Jesus’ death did not have the last word, but his love did. Though Jesus suffered Judas’ betrayal, he chose love in response. The bitter experience did not diminish Jesus’ love, and he continued to be the same.

The Gospel is an invitation to examine ourselves if we are like Judas – close to Jesus, yet divided in heart – or like the ‘certain man’ – far away from the Lord yet staying loyal, open, and generous to him. 

Let us pray that we may always stay with Christ, who never fails in love. 

Fr. Dhinakaran Savariyar