[:en]Herod the Great was the ruler of Galatia, Berea, Judea and Samaria. But when he died in 4 BC, the kingdom was divided among his sons. Archelaus, who received Judea and Samaria was removed from office within 10 years and his province were then ruled by a succession of Roman governors of whom Pilate was the fifth. Herod Antipas came from a hereditary part of Jewish monarch while Pilate was a Roman citizen, an envoy of the emperor. His position was created to replace Herod’s ineffective half brother. So, it was not surprising that the 2 men were enemies. However, when Pilate recognized Herod’s authority over Galilee by sending Jesus to him, they became friends. Both Herod and Pilate found no crimes committed by Jesus and no grounds for death penalty. But the crowd insisted on releasing Barabbas and condemning Jesus. Unfortunately, Pilate gave in to people’s demand . He sacrificed justice to secure his position.
How about you? Do you fight for what is right? Are your decisions influenced by personal benefits? Do you have the courage to stand up for what is right no matter how other people pressure you?
The Crucifixion (vs. 26-43)
Jesus was brought to Golgotha (Skull) to be executed. Simon from Cyrene was seized and asked to carry the cross for Jesus on his way. The people were watching, the rulers sneered at Him, the soldiers mocked Him and offered him wine vinegar.
Together with Jesus were two criminals. One of the criminals hurled insults against Jesus while the other one rebuked him and said to Jesus: “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom”., Jesus answered him: “I tell you the truth, today, you will be with me in Paradise” (vs. 42-43)
On the cross, Jesus said: “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing” (v. 34)
Reflection:
- If you were asked to carry the cross for Jesus, are you willing? (Simon from Cyrene)
- Have you insulted Jesus in you speech and deeds? (The rulers & soldiers)
- Have you believed in Jesus and accept Him as your personal Savior? (one of the thieves beside Jesus)
- Are you willing to forgive others just as Jesus forgives you? (Jesus)
Jesus’ Death (vs. 44-49)
Jesus called out with a loud voice: “Father into your hands I commit my spirit” (v. 46). When He had said this, He breathed His last. Darkness covered the entire land for 3 hours. The curtain on the Most Holy Pace was torn into two. At Christ’s death, the barrier between God and man was split into two. All people can approach God directly through Christ. (Heb. 4:16, 9:1-14)
Jesus’ Burial (vs. 50-52)
Joseph of Arimathea was a wealthy and honored man of the Jewish high council. He was a secret disciple of Jesus (John 19:38). The disciples of Christ fled, but Joseph boldly asked for His body and gave it a proper burial. Jesus was placed in a tomb with a large stone that covered the entrance. The Galilean women followed Jesus to the tomb. They stayed at the cross and got ready to anoint His body. And they were the first to witness His Resurrection.
Lesson:
- Let us emulate Joseph of Arimathea who was courageous to take the unpopular stand before the people.
- Let us learn from the Galilean women to follow Jesus till the end.
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