Station #1 - Pilate Condemns Jesus To Die

Read: Matthew 27: 11-14, 24, 26b.

Reflect: Here is Jesus, standing alone before Pontius Pilate; the King of the universe being judged and falsely accused by human rulers. Rather than fighting back Jesus stands still and stoic, not falling for Pilate’s baiting. Eventually Pilate opts to do with Jesus what is easy and popular rather than hard but just - he hands Jesus over to be crucified. 

As you read and reflect on this passage and look at the image above, what emotions come up for you? How do you find yourself wanting to respond to this story? 

Who do you most identify with here? Have you experienced being falsely accused of something? Are you familiar with what it means to be misjudged by others? How have you responded in the face of those experiences? Maybe you have judged or mistreated someone because it was the easier thing to do. Or chosen to turn your back on the right thing to do, even though you had the power to enact justice? What do you think influenced your choices?

Can you talk to Jesus about these experiences?

Pray: Lord Jesus, I see your unfailing commitment to your Father’s will and to us, as you stood before Pontius Pilate. I’m in awe of the strength and resolve that you displayed in the face of such injustice. Thank you for your willingness to experience such things for me. As I too face the injustices that life throws at me, remind me that you know what it is to experience them. And when I am faced with the choice to do the just thing or the easy thing, give me courage to follow in your footsteps. Amen.