Evening Devotional – December 16 (Scripture: Matthew 26:14–15)

Key Truth: Jesus was betrayed for thirty pieces of silver, fulfilling prophecy and opening the way for redemption. He endured rejection so we could be accepted by God. His love never falters—even when people fail us. Family Reflection: How does Jesus’ experience of betrayal help your family trust Him through your own hurts? Activity Idea: Talk about a time when someone hurt you and how forgiveness changed the situation. Pray for strength to forgive as Jesus forgave. Prayer Prompt: Thank Jesus for taking on rejection so you could be accepted by God. Ask Him to help your family forgive others and trust His faithfulness.   Day 16 Combined Summary Zechariah foretold the thirty pieces of silver that would mark betrayal, and Matthew records its fulfillment in Judas’s treachery. What looked like defeat became the doorway to redemption—Jesus bore rejection so we could be accepted. Christmas reminds us to resist sin’s pull and trust God’s faithfulness. His grace empowers us to forgive and remain steadfast in a world full of temptation and brokenness. Additional Scripture References Zechariah 11:12–14 – Prophecy of betrayal for thirty pieces of silver. Matthew 26:14–15 – Judas betrays Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. Luke 22:3 – Satan enters Judas. John 13:27 – Judas influenced by Satan during the Last Supper. Romans 3:25 – Jesus as the propitiation for our sins. Hebrews 2:17 – Christ makes atonement for sin.