STATION 4

Jesus Tried By Pontius Pilate
John 18:33-37

Devotion:
The trial that Pilate holds with Jesus is different than the one Jesus had before the Sanhedrin. While they wanted Jesus to admit his guilt, Pilate wants Jesus to defend himself. Because if Jesus makes no defense, according to Roman law, Pilate will have to pronounce him guilty. So according to the law if Jesus says nothing in his defense, Pilate the Judge must declare Jesus guilty of what he has been accused of. Whether or not Pilate believes Jesus is innocent or not or understands who he really is, what he is not able to understand is Jesus’s refusal to defend himself. And we can understand that, because we want Jesus to defend himself, we want him to tell Pilate who he is, show his power, and set everyone straight. Because we know the truth, Jesus is the Messiah, he is God. But when Jesus makes no attempt to say anything to deny his guilt or prove his innocence, Pilate is shocked. Shocked as Jesus doesn’t even try to defend himself, shocked because Jesus knows the law and knows what Pilate must do. But what Pilate doesn’t realize is this: In the eyes of God, the Truth needs no defense.

Reflection:
What goes through your mind when you realize Jesus willingly chose not to defend himself? Describe the difference between using a word like “resignation” when Jesus is brought before Pilate, and “quiet passion.” How does this scene affect your devotion towards Jesus?

Prayer:
Dear Lord, when you stood before Pilate and were questioned, you knew the truth of who you were and are and the truth of what you were bringing to this world. You knew that by not defending yourself you were accepting the sentence of death, for me. I am so grateful and blessed that you took my guilt and shame. In these moments help me to find the times when I am Pilate, when instead of grace, I extend judgement. Help me to see truth when it is before me so I can indeed share your love with those around me. Amen.