When the Crowd Turns

Lent on the Run — Day 37

Apr 16, 2025

While he was still speaking, suddenly a crowd came, and the one called Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him; but Jesus said to him, ‘Judas, is it with a kiss that you are betraying the Son of Man?’
— Luke 22:47–48

This last week of Lent, as we approach the end of this season, we approach difficult topics thjat often truly make us think. They take us deeper than we often may be comfortable, yet they help us understand the true depth of Jesus’ love for us—and thereby the love we are called to have with one another.

There’s something uniquely painful about betrayal—especially when it comes from someone close. Judas didn’t just betray Jesus with words; he did it with a kiss, a sign of affection twisted into an act of deception.

For runners, betrayal might not always come with such drama. Maybe it’s the training partner who suddenly ghosts you. Maybe it’s the friend who questions why you run at all, mocking what brings you life. Maybe it’s even your own body—an injury at the worst time, a race that goes sideways after months of effort. These betrayals—big or small—sting because they hit where we’re vulnerable.

In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus doesn’t retaliate. He doesn’t shame Judas. He simply says, “Judas, is it with a kiss that you are betraying the Son of Man?” A question. A pause. A moment of clarity offered even in the midst of chaos.

This Lenten season, as you run, walk, or simply try to keep moving forward, consider where you’ve felt betrayal. Name it. Feel it. But then look to Jesus, who met betrayal with courage, grace, and clarity. Not denial. Not vengeance. Just truth wrapped in love.

When the crowd turns—whether it’s people around you or the inner critic within—remember: your worth isn’t based on their loyalty. It’s rooted in the One who never turned away, even when others did.