Nougat 26

They say hindsight is 20/20; but what happens when clear vision in the present shows that we’re being used? Consider today’s Holy Nougat

“(For he realized by now that the leading priests had arrested Jesus out of envy.)” ‭‭Mark‬ ‭15‬:‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬

So there was Pilate, overseeing Jesus’ trial and he realizes that the accused is innocent. He also aware that the power to execute true Justice is in his hands, as he was authorized to make the determining decision about Jesus’ sentence. Pilate tries to take the high road. There is an annual prisoner-release tradition that he can invoke, which would accommodate Jesus’ release. He would still be offering ‘good governance’ without inciting the crowd’s wrath.

He hadn’t factored in the degree of the priestly jealousy! They wanted Jesus dead no matter the cost. So, instead of asking for Jesus’ release, the mob was stirred up by the priests to release a real dyed-in-the-wool criminal. I think that’s what is called ‘kangaroo court’!

What we need to reflect on is ‘How would we respond in Pilate’s shoes?’ We have the evidence and it is clear – these are trumped up charges by the respected elite of society. It is also irrefutable that they want the accused dead. The power to accept or deny the charges lies with us – Do we allow ourselves to be manipulated and threatened by the crowd, or will we allow Justice to prevail?

Fortunately, we have the Big Picture. And, despite Pilate caving in to the demands, Jesus rises above all the violence. Yes, He was crucified. But Jesus rose from the grave! Pilate didn’t know that, he only had the insights and data before him. Was he simply fulfilling Scripture, or should he have made a better choice?

More importantly, how does Pilate’s action influence our choices ? Do we prayerfully ponder the situations set before us, or do we yield to external pressure, even when we know that they’re manipulating others? God alone knows what will obtain, but it is worth preparing ourselves to be aligned with God’s will – which in Pilate’s context is difficult to discern.

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May all we seek be found in Christ