John 13:21–25

When Jesus had said these things, He was troubled in spirit, and testified and said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.” Then the disciples looked at one another, perplexed about whom He spoke.

Now there was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved. Simon Peter therefore motioned to him to ask who it was of whom He spoke. Then, leaning back on Jesus’ breast, he said to Him, “Lord, who is it?”

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These verses include the first of five times in John’s Gospel when John referred to himself as the one “whom Jesus loved.” (See also John 19:26; 20:2; 21:7, 20.) Their close relationship was further demonstrated by him being seated next to Jesus, a seat of honor. Peter asked John to relay his question to Jesus, probably because John was close enough to whisper and Peter was not confident enough to ask his question out loud. The rest of the table was apparently unaware of these whisperings, which is why they assumed Jesus had sent Judas out on a special mission.

During the 1920s a swindler named Charles Ponzi experienced a rise to fame. His plan incited investors to purchase foreign postal coupons at a discounted price. He assured them the coupons could be redeemed at face value for US postage stamps. He took money from new investors to pay those already involved, making millions before his “pyramid scheme” collapsed. Those who invested lost around twenty million dollars.

These types of fraudulent investments earned the name “Ponzi scheme,” while society was reminded to be careful whom they invest in. When Jesus invited Judas into relationship with Him, He knew betrayal was imminent. He flipped the script on what would be considered wise in order to bring about His ultimate purpose. Our Savior’s end goal is right relationship with humanity, no matter the cost to Him.

That concludes our devotional for today. Let us finish with a word of prayer.

WORD OF PRAYER

Jesus, I am humbled by the depth of Your love and sacrifice, knowing that You willingly endured betrayal for the sake of Your ultimate mission. You chose to love, invite, and serve even those who would turn against You. Help me, Lord, to reflect that same love and grace toward others, even when it costs me. Teach me to trust in Your purpose, knowing that Your plans are always for the good of those who follow You. Thank You for enduring the pain of betrayal so that I could experience true and lasting relationship with You.

In the name of Jesus, amen.