A Lenten Devotion for Monday, March 24
- ontrakk
- Mar 24
- 1 min read
John 19:19
Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS.
I have never taken note of this in scripture- that the sign was in three languages. As noted in Lucado’s writing, anyone who passed by would be able to read this. So, did this handwritten sign attached to Jesus’ cross communicate God’s message? Did God actually use Pilate to further this truth? It would be impossible for any passerby to miss a sign attached to Jesus’ cross. God spoke clearly to his people. I hope and pray that if and when God speaks to me this clearly, I am reading, listening, seeing or hearing whatever He is telling me.
Holy Lord, I try to be listening all of the time, but I know I miss so much. Help me to see and hear whatever you intend for me. Amen
Becky, transforming
John 19:19
Pilate had intended the sign to mock the Jews and likely show consequences of anyone else claiming to lead the Jews, but God had another plan. This is another example of how God’s plan is so incredible and every detail of these events, purposeful and meaningful.
Heavenly Father, help us to know that your plans for Jesus and for all are perfect in every detail. Help me to always keep you in sight knowing your plan is the right plan for me. Amen.
John 19:19
Normally we see signs as being helpful. For Sale, arrows pointing the way, Rte.101 ahead, and words that teach. STOP, Fire Station head, Be Kind are examples. I think the sign Pilate ordered on Jesus' cross served several purposes. Written in 3 languages, it could be easily read and understood by the many who were in Jerusalem for Passover. This sign was also probaby used to taunt the Jewish religious leaders who were threatened by Jesus and who wanted him condemed. Maybe Pilate thought this would absolve him of the guilt he surely felt for condeming an innocent man. What are the signs God puts in our own lives today? Whatever they are, I hope …
John 19:19
Here’s that Pilate guy again. Lucado suggests Pilate’s motivation may have been mockery of the Jews, but then why in three languages? Again, I think Pilate had some uneasy sense about this Man he released to the mob calling for His murder despite having committed no crime. Pilate must have been haunted by his interview of Jesus, not to mention his wife’s dream and, aware or not, he became, as Lucado says, a scribe for God to send a message to anyone who saw the sign. Out of the hundreds, perhaps thousands Pilate condemned to death, this One must have been on his mind till the day he died.
Prayer - Jesus, how can we today convey the…