Still His Friend

And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him. Matthew 26:50

Jesus knew what Judas had just done. He knew what Judas' kiss signified and what was about to happen. Yet His greeting to the man who betrayed Him, the man who's actions were about to cost Him more pain than we can imagine, was "Friend." How often do we betray Christ? How often do we fail Him, how often knowingly and willingly choose not to do what we know is right? And every time He is waiting for us with that same greeting: "Friend." It is such an immense relief to know that, in spite of all my failings, shortcomings and betrayals, Christ loves me anyway and will still call me a friend.