Decisions

  Luke 23:24 So Pilate decided to grant their demand.

This critical moment came after hours of back and forth between the religious leaders, the crowd, and even Pilate and Herod. After this, there would be no turning back. It was the moment when the death blow was forged. Or was it? 

Each time I read this description of Jesus Passion week, I want to have Pilate act like a leader of the Roman army should have. I want him to call in the troops to quell the fervor of this tragic moment. However, my "easy solution" to this seemingly slippery slope event comes from watching too many Hollywood productions where the superhero comes to the rescue. 

I forget which Avengers movie it is where the heroes have saved the city from extinction but have wreaked tremendous havoc during the battle. Afterward, they are denounced and banned from further rescue efforts. Their "good deed" turned out ugly, and their salvation brought destruction and unnecessary death. 

In Jesus' judgment scene, Pilate decided to let the crowd have their way. The real deal was arranged eons before. Jesus was the Lamb that was slain before the foundation of the world. There would be no last-minute rescue. The actual redemption came three days later when Jesus rose from the dead when He led captivity captive, conquering death and the Devil. 

Jesus had to die so that he could win the greatest battle of history. The Lamb's blood was shed to redeem humanity. Pilate had no choice. But it seems like you do. Will you crucify the Savior thinking that you'll be rid of him? Or will you believe in his saving work on that cross? It is a critical moment in your history.