Day 11: Isolation and Repentance

Opening Scripture

Matthew 27:5 Then he went away. (NIV)

Devotional Reflection

The Bible says that God desires every soul to be saved. Christ’s death on the cross is effectual for whoever believes in Him, as we learn in the Gospel of John. This is even true for Judas, the betrayer.

Judas had once been given power by Christ to drive out demons and heal diseases. We know Christ would not divide His kingdom by granting such authority to an enemy agent. Judas had been a faithful servant, but he fell away because of increasing greed and bitterness toward Christ. He betrayed Jesus for money. When he came to his senses, he realized what he had done and attempted to return the money, heartbroken over his actions. But he went away in isolation. He was remorseful, but he never repented.

Peter, on the other hand, also betrayed Christ. He denied even knowing Him, going so far as to curse those who accused him of being a follower of Jesus. Yet Peter did not withdraw by himself. He, too, was remorseful—but he repented. After Christ’s resurrection, Jesus appeared to the disciples while they were fishing. When Peter realized it was Jesus, he jumped out of the boat and swam to shore, overwhelmed with excitement.

When we isolate ourselves, we can lose all perspective. In isolation, it becomes easy to pretend we have never sinned, as though we are perfect. Or we may condemn ourselves so harshly that we fall into self-hatred and feel unable to recover. Without others, our minds can spiral into a silo of negativity and despair. We need the fellowship of other believers. We need fellowship to hold us accountable when we stray from the path of Christ, and we need fellowship to encourage us when we have failed miserably. To be truly devoted to Christ, we must pursue fellowship with other believers in a habitual and regular way. Christianity cannot survive isolation.

The Examen

Where am I tempted to withdraw from others when I feel guilt, shame, or failure?

How might God be inviting me back into community rather than isolation?

Lectio Divina Scripture

Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: 10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. 11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? 12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. (NIV)

Read the passage slowly, out loud, several times. With each reading, emphasize a different word or phrase. Notice what stands out and why.

Prayer Prompt

Lord, help me hold on tight to my community of believers so I do not lose myself in isolation. Amen.