Commentary on SPY WEDNESDAY with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

COMMENTARY  ON SPY WEDNESDAY

THEME: Betrayal and Faith

Table of the Word: Matthew 26:14-16, Mark 14:10-11, Luke 22

In Christianity, Holy Wednesday commemorates the Bargain of Judas as a clandestine spy among the disciples. It is also called Spy Wednesday, or Good Wednesday (in Western Christianity),  and Great and Holy Wednesday (in Eastern Christianity). (cf. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_Wednesday)

Spy Wednesday on the other note, is the Wednesday of Holy Week in the Christian calendar, observed on the Wednesday before Easter Sunday.

Significantly, on this day, Judas Iscariot is said to have conspired with the chief priests to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver, as recorded in the New Testament account (cf. Matthew 26:14-16, Mark 14:10-11, Luke 22).

However, some Christian denominations observe Spy Wednesday with special services, prayers, or reflections on the betrayal of Jesus and the significance of loyalty, forgiveness, and redemption. In the present time, some local churches opt for the celebration of Chrism Mass (Mass for blessing of Oils and renewal of priestly commitment or vows)

Notably, tthis day holds deep spiritual and symbolic meaning as it marks the beginning of the Christ’s passion - a journey of suffering, sacrifice, and redemption of human race. A event which commemorates the reconciliation of humanity with divinity after the great fall (cf. Genesis 3:1ff.)

According to the synoptic Gospels, it was on this day that Judas went to the chief priests and agreed to hand Jesus over to them for thirty pieces of silver. His betrayal was not just a personal failing but a moment that set in motion the events leading to Jesus’ crucifixion. The quiet and calculated nature of Judas' actions earned this day the name "Spy Wednesday," emphasizing the secrecy and treachery of his betrayal.

Christians reflect on this day with solemnity. It serves as a reminder of the darkness that can reside within the human heart and the consequences of choosing personal gain over loyalty and love. It also challenges believers to examine their own lives, asking whether their actions reflect faithfulness to God or selfish desires.

Spy Wednesday is often observed through church services, readings from Scripture, and moments of silence or prayer. Some traditions even include processions or reenactments of Judas’ betrayal to help the faithful enter more deeply into the story of Christ’s Passion.

In essence, Spy Wednesday is not just about remembering Judas' betrayal, but about recognizing the human capacity for weakness and the ever-present opportunity for repentance and grace. As Holy Week progresses toward Good Friday and Easter Sunday, Spy Wednesday invites us into a deeper understanding of Jesus’ love and sacrifice - even in the face of betrayal.

Beloved in Christ, I wish to draw the curtain of this commentary close with the event in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. In this classic the phrase “Even you, Brutus?” captured my feelings which expresses the deep shock and heartbreak of betrayal by a trusted friend. This mirrors the emotional and spiritual weight of Spy Wednesday, when Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, secretly agrees to betray Him. Just as Caesar is stunned that Brutus, his ally, would turn against him, Jesus faces the pain of being betrayed not by a stranger, but by someone He called friend. Both moments reveal how betrayal cuts deepest when it comes from those we trust most. Spy Wednesday invites us to reflect on our own loyalties and challenges us to remain faithful, even when it’s difficult. Peace be with you!