the best from the worst
"My purpose here is the fulfillment of Scripture: 'He who partook of bread with Me has raised his heel against Me.' " —John 13:18
What a terrible sin it was for Judas to betray Christ for thirty pieces of silver! Yet the Lord brought good out of this abomination by predicting it so that, when it took place, Jesus' disciples believed that He is the I AM, that is, God (Jn 13:19). Out of Judas' betrayal, the Lord brought salvation and faith in His divinity. "God makes all things work together for the good of those who love" Him (Rm 8:28). "The Lord has made everything for His own ends, even the wicked for the evil day" (Prv 16:4). "Indeed, everything is ordered to your benefit, so that the grace bestowed in abundance may bring greater glory to God because they who give thanks are many" (2 Cor 4:15).
The Lord wants to bring good out of your most terrible sin. He wants to lead you and many others to repentance, healing, and holiness. If you have not confessed this sin in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, do so as soon as possible — within 24 hours. If you have already confessed your most terrible sin, thank the Lord for His forgiveness, ask for healing, totally give your life to Jesus, and look for opportunities to help others avoid committing your worst sin or help them repent of this sin. Let Jesus do the miracle of working all things together for the good of those who love Him.
Prayer: Father, may every detail of Your plan for my life be fulfilled.
Promise: "I have found David son of Jesse to be a man after My own heart who will fulfill My every wish." —Acts 13:22
Praise: Pope St. John I convened the Council of Orange, which settled a number of questions about grace. He would encourage us today to "grow...in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Pt 3:18).
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Edward J. Gratsch, October 4, 1999
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 12, 1999