Way of the Cross 1

February 27, 2009

On Friday’s from now until Easter Sunday we will accompany Jesus from the Hall of Pilate, where Jesus is condemned to death, to Golgotha (Calvary) where he was executed.

Station #1 Pilate Condemns Jesus to Die

Now Jesus stood before the governor; and the governor asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus said, “You say so.”  But when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he did not answer.  Then Pilate said to him, “Do you not hear how many accusations they make against you?” But he gave him no answer, not even to a single charge, so that the governor was greatly amazed. . . . So when Pilate saw that he could do nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took some water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this man’s blood; see to it yourselves.” . . . and after flogging Jesus, he handed him over to be crucified. (Matt 27:11-14, 24, 26b)

Jesus, I wish you would say something.  Defend yourself. Declare who you are.  Where are the lepers you healed, the blind who can now see?  Why don’t those who were lame stand up for you now?  Where are your followers?   Why are you standing there alone?

Why is Pilate such a coward.  He has the power and authority to do something, to put an end to this cruel injustice.  Why doesn’t he?  What is wrong with him?  What is he thinking?

But wait, I see in Pilate me.

I am Pilate when I fail to use my strength and power to help the innocent and the weak.
I am Pilate when I fear the crowd and choose what is easy rather than what is right.
I am Pilate when I seek to save myself rather than suffer for the sake of others.
What is wrong with me?

Jesus I see in you a quiet strength and a humble resolve I long for myself.  O Lord, I want to be like you.  Free me from the need to defend myself,  while giving me a voice to speak up for those who suffer.

Posted by jamie roach | Filed Under Lent, Spiritual Formation, Uncategorized 

Comments

2 Comments to “Way of the Cross 1”

  1. Georges Boujakly on February 28th, 2009 5:58 am

    Right on, Jaimie.
    Thanks for starting this series. Look forward to the rest. May God give you the desires of your heart.

  2. paul hill on March 3rd, 2009 9:00 pm

    From henceforth all our posts must have a number behind them. :)

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