This week we will be focusing on the Stations of the Cross, the series of events on Jesus’ last day leading up to His crucifixion. Depictions of these events can often be found in the form of paintings or carvings in churches or cathedrals. Of the twelve stations known, we will focus on the eight mentioned in the Bible, focusing on the meaning of the cross.
“Why?” Pilate demanded. “What crime has he committed?” But the mob roared even louder, “Crucify him!” Pilate saw that he wasn’t getting anywhere and that a riot was developing. So he sent for a bowl of water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this man’s blood. The responsibility is yours!”
Pilate condemns Jesus to die.
In our political climate it often appears decisions are made based on influence or pressure. Such was the case with Pilate. As the governor of Judea and according to Roman law, Pilate had the authority to sentence someone to death. In those days, death by the cross (crucifixion) was common and made the biggest statement.
The Pharisees (Jewish leaders) and a crowd of Jesus’ accusers believed Jesus was impersonating the Messiah {a crime of blasphemy in Jewish law} and appealed to Pilate to condemn Jesus to crucifixion. In Pilate’s first encounter with Jesus, he did not find Him guilty of any crime. In fact, it was custom that the governor would release a prisoner each year before Passover and Pilot suggested just that for Jesus.
Nonetheless, the crowd demanded another prisoner be released instead and again demanded Jesus be crucified. Offering an alternative punishment to the crowd, Pilate had Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip and forced Him to wear a crown of thorns. This horrifying punishment still was not enough for the crowd, and they called for Jesus to be crucified. Pilate, still not agreeing with the requested punishment, tried to free Jesus but ultimately sentenced Him, according to the desire of the crowd, to be crucified on the cross.
Pilate gave in to the pressure. The crowd was growing so angry that he feared a riot – for which he would be accountable to his boss (Caesar). He likely considered what it would do to his reputation if he didn’t give in to their demands. Or maybe he was tired of the crowd bothering him and just gave in. Have you ever felt pressure to give in? It is not just politicians that face influence or pressure, we all do. We conform to the world’s standards instead of what God wants us to do. It seems easier than doing what is right – or is it? The truth is pressure keeps us from God’s plan for our lives. When we give in, satan has an opportunity to step in and next thing we know, we are overwhelmed and not making the best choices in our life. It is important in those times that we remember who God says we are. We do not have to conform, give in, or keep up. Instead, we can recognize the value God sees in us, rest in His plan, and rely on His strength.
