Day 316.
And as soon as it was morning, the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole Council. And they bound Jesus and led him away and delivered him over to Pilate. And Pilate asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” And he answered him, “You have said so.” And the chief priests accused him of many things. And Pilate again asked him, “Have you no answer to make? See how many charges they bring against you.” But Jesus made no further answer, so that Pilate was amazed. (Mark 15:1-5 ESV)
It is always astounding to read this text and find that Jesus does not cry out in his own defense. We know he was innocent, that he alone is righteous. Jesus knows too. And yet, he subjects himself to the governing authorities, even though he is king of kings. Why did he do it? Because it was the will of God. Jesus already spent time praying in the garden, “Lord, take this cup from me, yet not my will but yours be done.” And he resigned himself to what he knew was coming. His subjection to the authorities, both the Jews and then the Romans, was God’s will. Through that subjection, Jesus accomplished salvation for all who believe in Him. His act brings us to God and invites us to follow his example. We too are called to subject ourselves to the authorities even when falsely accused. This is not to say that we must be silent. But it is clear that we must not lose our heads as though the world is falling down. God is in control.
Lord, help me to accept and even embrace the things that come down to me through the authority figures you have out in my life. This is your will.
