Pilate seems like a ruler that did not want to get involved with this situation. Whatever "charges" the Jews had against Jesus, they didn't amount to much in Pilate's eyes. This seemed like a matter the Jews themselves could handle. If Jesus claimed to be a king and a messiah, what difference does that make to Pilate? Jesus appeared to be no threat to him or Rome, and he would have no knowledge of the coming of a messiah. So, he sends Jesus to King Herod, who had jurisdiction over the region of Galilee. Pilate was sending him back to the local authority, in hopes that Herod would settle this matter without Pilate's further involvement.
Regardless of what Pilate believed, today's devotion asks us to think about what blessings come from knowing Jesus as our Messiah and King. Here are some things that come to mind for me: love, grace, forgiveness, eternal life, God's presence, God's guidance, Christian community, justice for all, prayer, service, and being served. There are many more, for sure. What would you add to my list?
When we get caught up in this world we come to believe that we are lacking; we aren't good looking enough, not skinny enough, not tall enough, aren't strong enough, don't have the right clothes or drive the right car, our spouses are lacking, all our relationships are wrong, we are an empty people constantly looking to fill ourselves up with something. Maybe drugs, alcohol, romantic flings, new cars, new clothes, a vacation, but the emptiness comes back quickly. When I stand and raise my hands in worship to Jesus, my Messiah and King, I am whole.....that is my blessing for claiming Jesus as my Savior and Lord.
ReplyDeleteWorship is truly a blessing and God has given you a gift for worshipping with JOY, Julie! I would add to Pastor's list: Jesus' perfect friendship, indwelling of the Spirit, a spirit-filled church family, God's Word, merciful opportunities for do-overs, the beauty of creation.
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