John 18:33-37 (NRSV)
Read John 18:33-37 on biblegateway.com
Verse 33Then Pilate entered the headquarters again, summoned Jesus, and asked him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" Verse 34Jesus answered, "Do you ask this on your own, or did others tell you about me?" Verse 35Pilate replied, "I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests have handed you over to me. What have you done?" Verse 36Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not from this world. If my kingdom were from this world, my followers would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here." Verse 37Pilate asked him, "So you are a king?" Jesus answered, "You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice."
Devotion
The Good Friday story, the trial and crucifixion of Jesus, is one we usually prefer not to dwell on. It’s bloody and gory, cruel and unfair. The trial was a sham; the verdict rammed through by shouts and intimidation. On the whole, our spiritual ancestors are not shown in a very good light.
Yet, the events of that day are crucial to our faith. Without them there would be no Easter, no Savior, no forgiveness. Without the blood of Good Friday, the world would be bleak indeed.
Christianity is often like that. We want total, quick and easy forgiveness - but Jesus calls us to repentance. We want to glory in God’s love - but Jesus calls us to serve. Our will is always contrary to God’s will, so we ever need the forgiveness provided by Good Friday and Easter.
Prayer
Lord, help us to remember your sacrifice, and show us your will in all that we do. Amen.