Wednesday of Holy Week
Wednesday of Holy Week
Wednesday of Holy Week, sometimes called "Spy Wednesday," commemorates the day when Judas Iscariot conspired with the chief priests to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver.
The Betrayal Arranged
"Then one of the twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, 'What are you willing to give me if I deliver him to you?' So they weighed out for him thirty pieces of silver." — Matthew 26:14-16
Thirty pieces of silver—the price of a slave according to Exodus 21:32. For this sum, Judas sold his Lord and sealed his own damnation.
Why "Spy Wednesday"?
The name "Spy Wednesday" refers to Judas acting as a spy within the apostolic band, looking for the right moment to hand Jesus over. While Jesus continued to teach and the other disciples prepared for Passover, one among them carried darkness in his heart.
The Mystery of Judas
Judas remains one of Scripture's most troubling figures. He had walked with Jesus for three years, witnessed miracles, heard the teachings, been trusted with the common purse. Yet he chose betrayal.
Various motives have been suggested:
- Greed (he was a thief, according to John 12:6)
- Disillusionment (perhaps expecting a political messiah)
- Satan's influence ("Satan entered into him," John 13:27)
Whatever the cause, Judas's story warns us that proximity to Jesus is not the same as surrender to Jesus.
Contrast with Mary
The liturgy often contrasts Judas with Mary of Bethany, who anointed Jesus with precious ointment. While she gave extravagantly, Judas sold cheaply. While she honored Jesus for burial, Judas prepared him for death.
The Chrism Mass
In many dioceses, the Chrism Mass is celebrated on Wednesday of Holy Week (or another convenient day). At this Mass:
- The bishop blesses the holy oils (Oil of Catechumens, Oil of the Sick, Sacred Chrism)
- Priests renew their commitment to priestly service
- The unity of the diocesan church is expressed
A Day of Preparation
As the Triduum approaches, Wednesday is a day of final preparation—Confession, interior recollection, and entering more deeply into the coming mysteries.