We don't know who Isaiah's Servant of the Lord was, but that doesn't matter. It's enough to know that he was someone open in mind and heart to the will and Spirit of God. He knew how to listen - something that most people do rather poorly. The Servant was not discouraged or defeated by opposition and resistance - after all, he knew that he was obeying God. He was given the gift of encouraging people through his words. There is no greater gift! How do we use our words? Complaining, gossiping, criticizing, or being silly does not encourage others or work for the common good. We are at our best - and closest to God - when we are encouraging and supporting others in their struggles.

People have always tended to hate and demonize Judas. His betrayal of Jesus was very 'high profile' and obvious, but ordinary Christians betray Jesus every day. We can do that through a serious lack of love, through selfishness, unkindness, aggression and hatred, violence, dishonesty, and spiritual laziness. Peter betrayed the Lord with his denials; the apostles with their cowardice and flight. We have to remember that Jesus loved Judas just as he loved the others. We have no idea why he betrayed the Lord, but we should hope for his ultimate salvation too.