First Reading: Is 50:4-9a;  Psalm: 69. R. v.14c, b; Gospel: Mt 26:14-25

THE EVIL OF PRESUMPTION

BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP

“Is it I Master?” (Mt 26:25)

When we don’t admit that we need help, we cannot really be helped. If the sick do not admit their sickness, they would not think of going to the hospital or taking any medication. When we rationalise and justify an evil deed no matter how destructive it is, we will see nothing sinful in such action. It is only when we admit sin as sin that remorse and repentance begins. The denial of the sinfulness of an evil action kills the guilt that goes with it.

When Jesus spoke of his betrayal to the twelve, they were sorrowful. Inquisitive to know who the traitor was, they asked Jesus one after the other “Is it I Lord?” Judas didn’t appear or sounded like one who was sorrowful or remorseful. If indeed he was, he would have confessed and repented when Jesus brought his sin before his face. He knew Jesus was referring to him but he denied and concealed his sinful intended action and persisted. Pretending as if he cared, he asked “Is it I Master?” The reply of Jesus implied that he has condemned himself with his own mouth.

Judas thought that Jesus would evade his arrest. He also presumed that his action would easily be forgiven by Jesus probably because he was one of his Twelve. Presumption is a sin against hope because those guilty of it are not making any possible effort to be saved. Presumption is when we presume God’s mercy thereby shunning confession. When we refuse to acknowledge our sins thereby making repentance impossible. When we become so indifferent in sin. In situations like this, we cannot be helped. Are we guilty of the sin of presumption? Jesus is calling us today to have a change of heart.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Lord Jesus, save us from the sin of presumption. Amen.