One very important factor in any relationship is trust. It is something we build over time but can lose in just one moment. One image is that of a jar wherein marbles are collected over time for all to see. The collector demonstrates trust in those who see it, but sadly it just takes one betrayal and the jar can be emptied. 

What are the most painful betrayals?

• Unfaithfulness or infidelity?
• Lying?
• Telling someone a secret?
• Someone who talks about you behind your back?

According to a study the worst one is when one is not interested in a relationship anymore. 

In the Gospel this week, Jesus experiences one of the most painful of human experiences – he was betrayed by Judas. 

All of us have been betrayed and yes, the pain is perhaps still there when we see the person or when we recall the event or when there is something that reminds us of the betrayal.

Three things we remember:

1. Forgiveness is a life long process. It is not that we wake up one day and are fully healed. We continue to pray for those who have betrayed us as this is the best step to heal. 
2. We Forgive ourselves. How can I be so trusting? How can I be so stupid? How can I be so vulnerable? If only we were perfect but we are not. If only we could tell the future but God did not give us that gift because it will take away our trust in Him. If only we were more sensitive to the red flags and inconsistencies but decided not to mind it. The past has passed, lessons learned, time to move on and let go.
3. God has a plan. When things like this happen to us, we ask “WHY”? Even the most tragic events, there will surely something good to come out. Hence in all our betrayals in life, we trust God.

This week in Mass, we ask forgiveness for the people we betrayed. We, too, forgive people who have betrayed us. As we journey with Christ this Holy Week we remember that while there is the pain of Good Fridays in life, there will surely be the joy of Easter Sunday to follow.