Holy Week | Day 3: A Day of Silence and Betrayal

“Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests,
And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you?
And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver.
And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.”
—Matthew 26:14–16

Teaching and Reflection

Today in Holy Week is often referred to as “Silent Wednesday.” The Gospels do not record any public teachings or miracles from Jesus on this day. But silence does not mean nothing was happening. In the shadows, betrayal was being set into motion.

Judas, one of Jesus’ own disciples, walked away from intimacy and chose betrayal. He sought out the chief priests. He initiated the deal. And all for thirty pieces of silver—about four months’ wages. A small price for the life of the Savior.

This moment invites deep personal reflection:
What am I trading Jesus for?

Is it the comfort of routine sins I haven’t fully surrendered?
The approval of people instead of obedience to Christ?
A quick escape from pain, conviction, or spiritual growth?

Judas’ betrayal didn’t happen in an instant.
It was likely a slow erosion of heart.
Unspoken disappointment.
Unconfessed sin.
Unmet expectations.

And yet—Jesus still loved him.
Jesus still washed his feet.
Jesus still called him “Friend.”

This is the heart of God: willing to be betrayed so we can be restored.

Personal Reflection

Today, sit in stillness.
Let God speak into your silence.
Ask Him:

• What have I chosen over You, Jesus?

• What comforts or sins have taken Your place?

• Where have I quietly betrayed You with my choices, my silence, or my pride?

Then, let the Holy Spirit examine your heart—not to condemn you, but to restore you.

Write out a prayer of repentance. Speak it aloud if you can. Let this day be the moment your heart turns back fully.

A Prayer to Pray

Father,
Search my heart.
Reveal anything I’ve chosen in place of You.
Forgive me for every quiet betrayal—every time I have known You and yet walked my own way.
Thank You that Your love still reaches for me.
Thank You that even in my failures, You offer forgiveness.
Today, I choose You again.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.