“The One I Will Kiss”
We thank you, O God, that we have the opportunity to have an intimately personal relationship with Jesus Christ our Lord; on this Christmas Eve we praise you for the Word made flesh and for the Holy Spirit that make that relationship possible.
Help us to develop that relationship in appropriate ways; help us to be obedient, to be faithful, and to be open.
Protect us from trying to use that relationship in inappropriate ways; guard us against attempted manipulation, against sought advantage, and against selfish motives.
Remind us, O God, that a kiss is not just a kiss but that a kiss can reveal any number of motivations and desires. May our expressions of affection to you be legitimate, honest, and appropriate.
Amen.
“While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the twelve, arrived; with him was a large crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the elders of the people. Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, ‘The one I will kiss is the man; arrest him.’ At once he came up to Jesus and said, ‘Greetings, Rabbi!’ and kissed him. Jesus said to him, ‘Friend, do what you are here to do.’ Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and arrested him.” (Matthew 26:47-50)
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