Mark chapter 14 verses 10-11 (NIV)
Then Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Jesus to them. They were delighted to hear this and promised to give him money. So he watched for an opportunity to hand him over.
Matthew chapter 5 verse 16 (NIV)
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Galatians chapter 6 verses 9 – 10 (NIV)
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
The New Testament readings this week have reminded me that many of the Jewish religious leaders were always keen to look out for an opportunity to catch Jesus out, but they didn’t succeed. Now in Mark’s Gospel we read that Judas, one of the twelve disciples now looked for an opportunity to betray Jesus. Some people, I think, look for an opportunity to catch us out too. Is our faith as steadfast as we tell them? Do we “walk the walk?” or just “talk the talk?” or are we seeking to ensure that our testimony glorifies the Lord? That’s how Jesus expects us to be, as we see what He tells the disciples. If we allow His light to shine through us, it will glorify God.
Paul teaches that we should actually take things a step further and unlike Judas, who was seeking to betray Jesus, as ambassadors of Jesus, we should be looking for every opportunity to do good. In doing so then the light of Christ should definitely be seen in our lives.
Dear Lord,
Help me to seek every opportunity to do good as a follower of Jesus so that Your light may shine through me and You will be glorified. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.