“Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” (Lord Acton, British historian, 1834-1902) Pilate on behalf of Rome and the priests of Jerusalem demonstrated the truth of this axiom. Although Rome boasted on having the most advanced legal and justice in the world, justice was the last thing on Pilate’s mind. He had absolute power and used his power at the whims of his own vanity. The priests had power, though not absolute, and used it with equal vanity. Both are affirming the wisdom of King Solomon: “Pride goes before destruction and haughtiness before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18) Can the irony be any thicker than the priest’s refusal to enter Pilate’s residence, lest they be ceremonially defiled and unable to participate in the Passover? Yes, it can.
The absurdity of the moment escaped the priests as they conspired to kill an innocent man while expressing a need to remain faithful to their law by refusing to touch something unclean. However, the irony thickens as they shout for the release of a man lawfully convicted and sentenced to die and substitute in his behalf the innocent blood of Jesus. They thought they were being clever. What they really did was make it clear that the innocent Jesus was dying for sinful people.
Of course it was not just the sins of Pilate, the priests, the crowd, and the Roman soldiers that Jesus took to the cross. Mine were nailed there as well. As I celebrate Jesus’ sacrifice on behalf of all humanity it will be worth my while to examine my life. Where does my basking in God’s grace collide with my legalistic attitudes toward others? Where are the places in my life where I shout for my interpretation of justice for others while I’m praying for God’s mercy in my life?
It is not if, but where are these ironies in my life? Maybe the place to begin is by calling a spade a spade. Isn’t hypocrisy a more appropriate word?
What word or phrase in these verses
attracts your attention?
Reflect on that word or phrase.
What insights come to you?
How does this passage touch your life today?
Reading for 6-Apr-12 John 19:1-16
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