Luke 23:23-25 But with loud shouts they insistently demanded that he be crucified, and their shouts prevailed. So Pilate decided to grant their demand. He released the man who had been thrown into prison for insurrection and murder, the one they asked for, and surrendered Jesus to their will.
This verse made me pause for thought all week long:
What if Jesus had been handed over to ME?
How might I imagine things would have ended?
In my mind I would never in a million years have taken Jesus to be crucified on a cross. But my actions tell me a different story at times when I lose my way.
During the trials of my week, I remembered this verse. I kept asking myself, what if Jesus was handed over to me right at this moment? This moved me to tears.
Jesus, what would I do with you?
Would I crucify you all over again by giving into weariness, letting it rule me?
Or place a crown of thorns on your head by allowing feelings of confusion or doubt to dictate how I treat the rest of the world?
Or beat you with a whip by refusing to love your people?
Or mock you by forgetting those in need?
Or spit on you through my angry words or pouting spirit?
When those most holy moments or turning points came, I knew I stood at a crossroads.
I wanted to take Jesus’ hand and fall on my knees before Him. I wanted to surrender to HIM and free Him to have full access over me.
Lord, you committed yourself into the hands of the Father. It’s what I do now with you. So many times, I simply forget that every decision I make affects so much more than just me. Being too tired to surrender or being too overwhelmed to listen to your voice or thinking thoughts like you’re asking too much of me, ultimately causes more trouble and pain than if I had simply stopped and let your presence fill my heart. Jesus, I want my life not to grieve you, but to give you pleasure. Thank you for your grace that covers my sinful ways and thank you for teaching me everyday more about following your sweet will. In Jesus name, Amen.