April 10 - In the Silence

Matthew 27:11-26

“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.

Jesus is Crucified

It’s horrifying to think human beings would treat other human beings in such a way!

We’ve all heard the story, and been sickened by the thought of such a good and gracious man being treated with this extreme cruelty. The books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John all describe the event. One may describe a more detailed account of Jesus’ demise but the prophecy in Psalm 22 written hundreds of years before the Romans came to power is undeniable.  

Prophecy                                                                                                                  Fulfillment

Messiah would be forsaken (verse 1)                                                                  Matthew 27:46

The Messiah would be mocked (verse 2)                                                            Matthew 27:45-46

The Messiah would be poured out like water (verse 14)                                    John 19:34

The Messiah would be thirsty (verse 15)                                                            John 19:28

The Messiah would be crucified by non-Jews                                                    Matthew 27:27-31

The Messiah’s hands and feet would be pierced                                                 John 19:34, 20:25-29

The Messiah’s executioners would gamble for his robe (verse 18)                    Matthew 27:35

This Psalm 22 of David, prophesied the Messiah would be crucified when crucifixion as a state punishment had not yet been invented. This is no coincidence. Fulfilled prophecy is one of the most stunning features of the Bible, one that sets it apart from any other Holy Book.

As Christ followers, we may not need to be convinced of the authenticity of the Holy One, but it is this gift of fulfillment that offers us the evidence and courage to speak to others in his name.

Jesus' walk on this earth was pre-determined, deliberate and purposeful. Let us continue to believe and guide seekers of truth and peace to the cross. The cross, where He laid his body down for us.

Thank you Jesus!

                                                                                                                          Written by gail

Read/Listen to Matthew 27:32-44