“But Jesus made no reply, not even to a single charge - to the great amazement of the governor” (v. 14). Why didn’t Jesus say anything? Why didn’t he protest? Because the outcome was already decided, and he knew it. Fighting the charges would have been counterproductive. He knew what must be done and his silence spoke volumes.
Jesus’ lack of objection frustrated Pilate, especially when his wife told him “Don’t have anything to do with that innocent man” (v. 19). Pilate couldn’t understand why Jesus wouldn’t speak up and defend himself. As the uproar began and the crowd shouted louder and louder “Crucify Him!” Pilate realized things were out of his control and he washed his hands saying, “I am innocent of this man’s blood” (v. 24).
Up until this point, Pilate thought he was the one in control, but Jesus knew the truth – God was in control the whole time. The outcome wasn’t determined by Pilate or the chief priests and elders or even the condemning crowd. They had a part to play, but God was always in charge.
I don’t think it’s a coincidence that today’s reading talks about washing hands. It’s something we hear every day. We’re told we MUST wash our hands in order to stop the spread of the virus. Though Pilate didn’t realize it at the time, washing his hands is what saved us. It was an integral part of God’s story. If Pilate would have released Jesus, sin would have reigned.
So, let us remember that God is in control. We may not realize or understand it now, but we all have a part to play. Listen for your cue.
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