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Slapping the Savior

Meanwhile, the high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and his teaching. "I have spoken openly to the world," Jesus replied. "I always taught in synagogues or at the temple, where all the Jews come together. I said nothing in secret. Why question me? Ask those who heard me. Surely they know what I said." When Jesus said this, one of the officials nearby slapped him in the face. "Is this the way you answer the high priest?" he demanded. (John 18:19-22) 

Here we are with Jesus before his persecutors. They have tried for years to find a way to kill him but have never been able to do so. In their desperation, they call for a middle-of-the-night trial, which is never a good thing. They try to find witnesses who will give them a reason to do their dirty work, yet they found none. As they near the conclusion of their trumped-up charges, there is the above exchange. 

When Jesus replies to the question, He gets slapped by one of the officials nearby for his short answer. In the heat of the moment, this guy puts his Creator in his place. This unnamed official is the first person to slap in the Creator of the Universe. He won't be the last one. 

In some of his last words, Jesus does an amazing thing for people like this; from the cross, he cries out to his father, "forgive them, for they don't know what they are doing." I wonder if this temple official ever came to regret his actions. Did he come to know the One he had reprimanded? Only God knows. 

I wonder how often I slap the Savior with my words, attitudes and actions. How often do I ignore the Creator to defend my plans or beliefs? I know and am eternally grateful that he is ready to forgive. And, with his forgiveness, his forgetfulness kicks in. Amazing grace. 


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