Today's Gospel reading puts us at the start of Judas' betrayal of Jesus. Like Biblical researchers over the years, we are curious about what the value of the thirty pieces of silver is worth today. Yet, any monetary value could miss the significance of the "thirty pieces of silver."

Matthew's Gospel is written with a Jewish community in mind. So, "thirty pieces of silver" reminds the listener of the Book of Zechariah where it is the value of a slave based on Jewish Law (11:13). Moreover, Exodus 21:32 states: "If the bull gores a male or female slave, the owner must pay thirty shekels of silver to the master of the slave, and the bull is to be stoned to death."

Thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests, Matthew, and Zechariah, was the price of scorn - Jesus was merely worth the price of a slave! That is the extent of mockery of a master and teacher. After that, Judas rejoined the rest of Jesus' Passover party, ready to execute the betrayal of his lord and master. Jesus knew all that was happening, but accepted it to fulfil the plan of salvation He came to fulfil.

Some of us might have experienced betrayal by someone close to us. Someone we trusted. And it can be painful. Perhaps it can be an experience of consolation - to feel what Jesus felt. And, to trust in God's plan instead.