Jesus and Judas

 

      "I'm sorry, Judas my brother," Jesus said,"But it is necessary."

     "I've asked you before, rabbi--is there no other way?"

      "No, Judas, my brother. I too should have liked one. I too hoped and waited for one until now--but in vain. No, there is no other way.The end of the world is here.This world,this kingdom of the devil, will be destroyed and the kingdom of heaven will come. I shall bring it. How? By dying. There is no other way. Do not quiver, Judas, my brother. In three days I shall rise again."
   
       'You tell me this in order to comfort me and make me able to betray you without rending my own heart. You say that I have the endurance--you say it in order to give me strength.No, the closer we come to that terrible moment...no, rabbi, I won't be able to endure it!"

        'You will, Judas, my brother. God will give you the strength, as much as you lack, because it is necessary--it is necessary for me to be killed and for you to betray me.We two must save the world. Help me.'

        Judas bowed his head. After a moment he asked, "If you had to betray your master, would you do it?"

        Jesus reflected for a long time.Finally he said, "No, I'm afraid I wouldn't be able to.That is why God pitied me and gave me the easier task: to be crucified."


--Nikos Kazantzaki, The last temptation.