Happy Lutheran

So, in case you are ready to read something that is NOT about the Coronavirus, I have a quick recommendation. I don’t usually read graphic novels, but I have a very strong theological interest in Judas (basically, I think Judas is the exemplar of salvation in Jesus Christ—if he isn’t saved, none of us are). So, when I saw the graphic novel titled Judas, by Jeff Loveness and Jakob Rebelka, I had to get it. (Judas)

While I’m not a huge fan of the art—given that it takes place in hell, I think the temptation for dramatic excess was probably too strong to resist—the story is really good. Basically, Judas ends up in hell because he gave up on Jesus, and Satan encourages his despair. Then, however, Jesus ends up there, too, and Satan also encourages his despair; Jesus is not making a victory tour through hell, releasing the captives, instead, he becomes one of them, and ends up in the deepest pit of hell, abandoned and alone.

In the midst of Satan’s triumph, Judas’ faith in Jesus returns, and he seeks Jesus out and rescues him, facilitating his resurrection. Judas ultimately accepts the brokenness of Jesus’ story and his own story, but chooses love anyway, in the same way that Jesus chose love.

There is more to it than that, but you get the gist. This dramatization illustrates that the same power in vulnerability and humility that Jesus showed in his life, he also showed in his death and resurrection; and that no one ever is beyond the reach of Jesus’ love. Reconciliation, transformation, restoration—all things are possible for everyone, for all creation, actually. Not only for you and me, but even for Judas.