Faithful Till The End?
LENT DEVOTIONAL 2026 | DAY 37
Luke 22:1–6 (NIV)
By Alvena Khoo, Pastoral Team Member, Discipleship & Nurture
READ:
Luke 22:1–6 (NIV)
This passage is quiet and sobering, yet deeply relevant as I strive to walk faithfully in my life’s purpose and calling. Judas, one of Jesus’ twelve disciples, began his journey alongside Jesus at the start of His ministry. He walked with Him, listened to His teaching, and witnessed His miracles. Yet, over time, Judas’ heart turned away. Verse 3 says, “Then Satan entered Judas…”
Being near Jesus, following Him daily, serving actively in church, and doing God’s work does not automatically guard my heart against temptation and evil. Proximity to Jesus is not the same as a heart fully surrendered. Faithfulness requires continual surrender.
I believe Judas’ change wasn’t sudden, though Scripture records little about his inner life. In verse 4, Judas “went to the chief priests and the officers…” and “discussed with them how he might betray Jesus.” Verse 6 adds, “He consented and watched for an opportunity…”. Judas negotiated privately and carefully. Small compromises led to the great betrayal of his Lord. Betrayal usually begins long before the visible act—Judas waited for the right moment.
Reading Judas’ choices chills me and makes me reflect on my own life. In full-time ministry, I am always near God and His people. But Judas was, too. I strive to please God and serve His people. Judas did as well.
This passage invites me not to judge Judas too quickly but to examine myself honestly. It reminds me of the urgent need to check my heart regularly and confess my sins before being hardened by compromises. The excuses I make for myself in secret will shape who I become in public.
No one plans to betray or be unfaithful to those they love and respect. Yet, small compromises often open the door to greater sin. I think of moments when I hold on to irritation toward someone and soon justify avoiding them. I think of times when I allow busyness or lack of discipline to neglect unhurried time with God and His Word. When devotion fades and excuses multiply, something else will take centre stage. If Christ is no longer at the centre, something else will be.
“Search me, O God, and know my heart.” (Psalm 139:23) My desire is to remain faithful to the end—by examining my heart regularly and allowing the Holy Spirit to correct me. When He does, I will humbly confess and stay accountable within my community—among those who serve closely with me and those who fear God and speak His truth.
[ Reflection Questions ]
- Being active in church, ministry and serving God does not automatically guard your heart. Where might you be following Jesus outwardly, but drifting inwardly?
- What practices help you stay attentive to your heart before God?
- How can you guard devotion, not just duty, so that you can stay faithful till the end?
