Wednesday | Week 14

Jesus: Arrested, Tried, and Crucified

Accounts from John, chapters 18 and 19, strike me as deeply personal experiences for each character. The use of personal pronouns and rhythmic repetition show how the actions affect each character as witnessed in their responses. It’s those responses that provide an opportunity for us to meditate on our approach to identifying ourselves as Christ-followers.

When you look back on the arrest of Jesus, what will you remember?

I want to remember, that like Jesus, I must be bold in answering the call of who I am, and what I have been called to do.

When you look at how Peter responded when asked about knowing Jesus, what will
you remember?

I want to remember, that like Peter, I have a choice in identifying myself as a Christ- follower, and that my denials speak volumes to my loyalty.

When you look at how Pilate sentenced Jesus to be crucified, what will you remember?

I want to remember, that unlike Pilate, I must look at truth and not be persuaded by the voices of others.

When you see while Jesus was dying on the cross he notices his mother and John the disciple standing there, what will you remember?

I want to remember, that even in the most difficult of circumstances, to always look out for others, just like Jesus did with his mother and friend. 

Lord, as we remember these things, let us be confident that you were in control then and are still on the throne today. Let us remember that despite being innocent, Jesus turned to face the cross so that our guilt could be set free. Lord, we ask that these memories would be more than reminders. Help us to be mindful of you, so that our actions are like that of Christ.Amen.