In one of our family discussions we were talking about Judas of Iscariot, and I began to think about what role I have in the crucifixion of Jesus. We all know He died for our sins. I am sinful (as much as I do not want to be) and my freedom, salvation is due to Him. So, besides the incessant sinning, what role do I play on a regular basis?
This may sound like a strange question but walk with me through the dark recesses of my strange mind. We all play an active role in any given situation, even when we are passive. And hence the question, what role do I play in the crucifixion of Jesus?
- Am I like the greedy Judas who lacks loyalty and will betray the trust of my loving God?
- Am I a weak coward who denies Jesus when anything I value is at stake? What do I value?
- Am I like Pilate who did nothing knowing Jesus was innocent. Letting innocent suffer so that I am not inconvenienced?
- Am I like the Pharisees who were afraid that their hypocrisy and love of authority will be exposed?
- Am I like the lost sheep in the crowd, yelling “Crucify Him” in a mindless state influenced by the mob?
- Or am I like the Marys at the foot of the cross, drowned in sorrow and helpless?
For those of you rooting for me, unfortunately, I play all those roles. Not wittingly mind you, I want to do something completely different – I want each living moment to be spent glorifying our good Lord.
’15 I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. ‘
-Romans 7:15
At times, for ease I ignore what God expects me to do, like Pilate did when he washed his hands. At other times, I occupy my mind with worry and sorrow demonstrating a lack of faith like the Marys at the foot of the cross. If I really could, I would be Simon of Cyrene, willing to partake in Jesus’ cause not asking questions, just lugging the cross in complete obedience.
“26 Now as they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus”
-Luke 23:26
Dear Jesus,
You died for me and all of Your children. Help me channel my thoughts, actions and words today and every day to glorify you. Let every fiber in my being reflect the gratitude I feel for being loved so much by You. Amen.