Today's readings are Numbers 24.1-25 and Luke 23.1-25.
As we read Luke 23 today we can make a comparison between Jesus and Pilate. Jesus goes toward his end, unflinching. It does not matter what public opinion says. It does not matter what the governmental officials say. It doesn't matter how he is treated by the soldiers. It doesn't matter to Jesus that he is guilty of no crime whatsoever. He shows a steadfast determination to face death unflinching.
Pilate, on the other hand, is much more like we are. He isn't sure what is going on. He does release a prisoner to the people at this time of year, but doesn't think this is a fair prisoner exchange. Yet he's pushed by tradition, by public opinion, by the very real threat of insurrection. He is acting in the most pragmatic way he can to try to quell the disturbance which seems to center around Jesus.
How many times do we live out our Christian walk very much like Pilate lives? How often are we moved by public opinion rather than by the Scripture? How often are we intimidated by those immediately surrounding us when we could simply state our position and face those around us with a clear conscience? How often do we try to make peace but end up simply brushing troubles under the carpet?
May we walk like Jesus walked today.
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