For Those Dealing with Betrayal
Merciful Lord,
The pain of betrayal is a unique wound. We are not surprised when those who have openly expressed their dislike of us or our enemies hurt us, but being betrayed stings differently. When we extend our trust to an individual or an organization, we assume certain understandings and agreements are in place. When we give our word, we take seriously our responsibility to keep it, and we expect those we trust to do the same. So when that bond of trust is broken, or that word isn’t kept, it leads us to question the relationship altogether. Furthermore, it can cause us to rethink other relationships or pull back in isolation, resulting in our reluctance to trust others in the future.
Sadly, Lord, you are no stranger to betrayal. Not only did you experience it at the hands of those disciples you trusted while here on earth, but you experience it daily when we turn against you in sin. Yet, in your faithful mercy, which can always be trusted, you don’t turn away from us, but always forgive. Let that joyful reality ease the pain, the hurt, and the anger of all those who right now are feeling bowled over by betrayal.
In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.