Matthew 26- Josiah

After Jesus’ departure from Gerasenes, he went to Jerusalem with his disciples. From that point on, I lost track of them. It seemed as if Jesus wanted to keep quiet at this point and try to hide from the crowds. I took this opportunity to wander about and ask others about this mysterious figure. The Passover was happening soon and I needed a place to stay. As I stayed in a local inn, I headed to social gathering taking place outside, where I ran into the innkeeper. When I asked him if he had heard about Jesus, he told me he had recent information on his whereabouts. I quickly sat down to listen to the story he told me.
On the first day of Unleavened Bread, the disciples were told by Jesus to find a certain man who would have a place ready for them for the Passover. If this man personally knew Jesus or was friends with him wasn’t known. Once it was evening, they gathered together at a table for dinner. Jesus reclined in his seat and stated that one of them would betray him. It was then I interrupted the innkeeper, asking him a series of questions. Who was the betrayer? Why would he continue to allow this betrayer to become a disciple and follow him? How did he even know that in the first place?
The innkeeper said he couldn’t explain everything yet, but to continue to listen to the story. Impatient but willing, I calmed down and listened again. It was then that sorrow filled the room and every disciple started to ask Jesus, “is it I?” When Judas asked him, it was rumored that he didn’t say anything, or responded in a way that implied confirmation. Judas then left the supper.
It didn’t make any sense- did any of the other disciples hear him? Wouldn’t didn’t they try to run after Judas to capture him? Why would Jesus just let him go?! Nothing in this story made sense. Jesus just let Judas go, when he knew Judas would betray him in the future. There were many people who loved Jesus and followed him for the miracles he did- it was evident wherever he went. But at the same time, there were many who wanted him dead. The innkeeper told me that many religious officials didn’t like the teachings that Jesus was spreading, and they had been trying to capture him.