As I reflect on Maundy Thursday, one part of John 13 stood out to me:

18 “I do not speak concerning all of you. I know whom I have chosen; but that the Scripture may be fulfilled, ‘He who eats bread with Me has lifted up his heel against Me.’
John 13:18

Jesus knew who his betrayer would be. I have often heard how incredible Jesus’ love was for even Judas, as Jesus washed his feet. Then to consider that Jesus served Judas the last supper also demonstrates an unbelievable amount of love. Yet Judas still chooses to betray Jesus! When Jesus speaks in verse 18, He is quoting Psalm 41:9.

David, the author of Psalm 41:9 is speaking of his own betrayal. David’s friend, Ahithophel rebelled against David and sided with David’s son, Absalom. The story can be found in 2 Samuel 15-17. In this tragic story, Ahithophel commits suicide (2 Samuel 17:23). Is this starting to sound familiar? Jesus quotes this passage from Psalm 41 in reference to Judas who betrays Him and hangs himself (Acts 1:18).

A few practical things to consider:

Even though Jesus had chosen Judas, Judas still had to make His own decision to choose Jesus. So do we all.

Judas spent years with Jesus and decided to betray Him but in so doing, found that there was no meaning or purpose in life after rejecting Him. Real and true purpose in life is only found in Christ and submitting to His leadership.

Finally, Jesus’ identity was also confirmed by this prophecy from Psalm 41:9. Jesus has fulfilled many other prophecies also and thus given substantial evidence that He is the Lord and Messiah.