Wednesday of Holy Week April 7, 2004 Scripture: Isaiah 50:4-9A; Matthew 26:14-25 Reflection: At the Last Supper scene of Judas betraying Jesus, I wonder ‘how could Judas have done such a thing? Whatever was he thinking?’ And further, as they were eating, Jesus, obviously upset by the betrayal about to take place, cannot help but let it beknown that he knew – and Judas did it anyway! Jesus says, “Woe to that one by whom the Son of Man is betrayed,” but he makes no move to stop him. What is to be is to be. Judas made a decision, Jesus allows him this freedom and embraces the consequences. Jesus embraces the now, the events of his day, his hour, his life. Isaiah says, and we apply words to Jesus in the instance and to ourselves, “The Lord God helps me, therefore I have not been disgraced.” In the grace of the present moment we are meant to see God, bring about the kingdom, grow in wisdom and holiness, and hence draw closer to God. Isaiah says, “Morning by morning, God wakens – wakens my ear to listen to those who are taught.” If I listen to the events of my day, currents of grace will carry me forward into Jesus’ Sacred Heart, burning with love for me. Suggested Action: As you begin your day, let the mantra “All is grace” seep into your consciousness. See the events, the thoughts, the challenges of the day as opportunities to deepen your relationship with God. Sr. Ancilla Maloney, IHM New York, New York

Graphic: Sr. Holly Marino, IHM