Meditating on the Gospel scene gives us a sense of sorrow and pain as experienced by Jesus.

Though deep within Jesus, he knew this betrayal was part of the divine plan; nevertheless, the action of the betrayer is not to be excused. Such deception could be our own experience when a close friend betrayed us.

"It is the one to whom I give the piece of bread that I shall dip in the dish, (Jn. 13:26)." This passage re-echoes Ps. 41:9 "even my bosom friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted his heel against me."

What Jesus said after Judas had left the scene is reiterated in the first reading (Is. 49:3). The Messiah Servant is the ideal Israel through whom the Lord will be glorified. He will succeed where Israel failed. "I have toiled in vain, have exhausted myself for nothing, (Is. 49:4)."

So this was how Jesus encountered strong opposition even during His ministry. "I will make you light to the nations so that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth."

Christ is the light of the world.

We also see in Peter who could not accept Jesus' reply to him. "I will lay down my life for you," (Jn. 13:37). Peter was so sure of his loyalty to Jesus. He was so confident, but little did he know that Jesus' prophecy was fulfilled when he denied Jesus three times!