JESUS SPEAKING
Pilate […] went again in to the Praetorium, and said to Jesus, “Where are you from?” But Jesus gave him no answer. Then Pilate said to him, “Are you not speaking to me? Do you not know that I have power to crucify you, and power to release you?” Jesus answered, “You could have no power at all against me unless it had been given you from above. Therefore the one who delivered me to you has the greater sin.” (John 19: 8 – 11.)
INSPIRED THOUGHTS
Bound, bloodied and beaten, Jesus Christ stood before Pontius Pilate (the Roman Governor of Judea.) The Jews adamantly demanded He be sentenced to death. And yet, not wanting to kill an innocent man, Pilate proceeded to question Him; initially however, Jesus remained silent. Unaware that he was standing before the Son of God, Pilate warned Him that His silence could lead to His crucifixion. Still the Lord corrected the Governor; reminding him that it was God alone who would dictate the sentence. Pilate mistakenly believed that he was in control of the outcome of the trial; when in reality, he was merely an instrument in the hands of God; a tool used to bring about the Father’s eternal plan of salvation.
Even today, many look back upon the events surrounding Christ’s death and blame the Romans or the corrupt Jewish leadership. Jesus Christ however, was not murdered; His crucifixion was not the work of man, but rather, the work of God. He wasn’t forced to endure the cross; He chose to endure it. The nails didn’t hold Him in place on that fateful day either; instead, it was love that kept Him pinned to the cross. He died freely to accomplish the will of God. The cross is therefore not a symbol of anguish, but an emblem of grace and mercy; for upon the cross the Lord endured the punishment for our sins; that through His selfless action, we might all enter into fellowship with the Almighty God. Sacrifice is the ultimate expression of affection; Christ’s death is a love letter addressed to all mankind.
Have you come to know the love of God? Do you know why Jesus Christ died for you? He died so all those who believe can draw near to their eternal Father. Accept God’s sacrifice and invite Him into your heart. Give Him your life and let Him guide you. He will love you and protect you. Surrender to your creator and you will know true peace. Open your heart to the Son of God and receive His blessings. By accepting the gift of salvation, your heart will overflow with unending joy.
“Lord Heavenly Father, we accept Your sacrifice, and we thank You for sending Your Son to die for us. His blood is our blessing; may we surrender our lives to You now. Draw near to us Father, that we might intimately know You. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit and give us new life; that you may dwell in our hearts forever. We love You Lord, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.” God bless all of you!
Jesus Speaks 