The impending passion of the Lord dominates today's readings. Judas Iscariot plays his wretched part in the plan of salvation, and Jesus tries to comfort his beloved disciples ahead of the traumatic but necessary developments. In a striking counterpoint, Isaiah speaks of being personally called into being by God. Such a becoming must be good and whole, for God is very good, and nothing inherently evil can come from God. Does Isaiah's hymn of praise not lay any claims upon Judas' life and trajectory?

In our preparation of meditating on the mysteries and preparing ourselves to celebrate Holy Week, we are challenged to behold the goodness of God, who enables all creation against the vagaries and faults of a person. We could very well be that person ourselves, not with a fault as devastating as Judas', but significant enough that our relationship with God is strained, tenuous even.

In the eyes of God, we are complete and innately blessed by the Holy Spirit. We are always welcomed and called to return to God. How have we made a mistake in the path we forged? When did we forget that we are the children of God, taking for granted not only God's creation and each other but, most of all, the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ? Remember, remember and resolve to do better.