“The RoseBouquet”

When Pilate asked Jesus, “Are you the king of the Jews?” He answered, “It is as you say.” Then He said not another word to all the charges railed about Him by the mob in the courtyard. This amazed the governor, Pilate. He knew it was out of envy they had handed Jesus over to him. But he did have a legal dilemma.

Adding to this, his wife sent a message not to have anything to do with this Man. She had suffered some bad dreams over Him. Trouble would surely come if He was crucified.

Pilate tried to solve his problem by offering the people a choice, to release Jesus or Barabbas, a notorious criminal, for it was the custom at this feast time to release one prisoner. Under normal circumstances the people would never have wanted Barabbas loose again, but they were determined to be rid of Jesus that morning, so they choose to set a thief and murderer free instead.

Pilate saw he was getting nowhere. Yet he was too weak to take authority over the crowd. So he washed his hands, hoping to absolve himself of responsibility, and turned Jesus over to be flogged and crucified.

What do you think? Did God use even a weak man in a back-handed way, to carry out the plan of salvation? What if Pilate had been strong, defended Jesus, and dealt firmly with the angry mob? It would have foiled God’s plan; Jesus came to die legally, for our sins. Pilate was probably miserable the rest of his life over this decision, but he was part of God’s plan.

PRAYER: Dear Lord God, I hope I don’t become a negative part of Your plan. I’d rather obey You willingly, and be Your channel of blessing through noble deeds. However, I see You are able to work through even the faults and weaknesses of non-believers to bring to pass what You have determined to do. I need not fear unbelievers so much - You will turn even their decisions and actions around to bless those who do love and obey You. Thank You Lord, for being so great, so thorough, that You use even the bad for Your glory.

+++++Jesus is my King+++++Jesus is my King+++++

Blessings on you Today!
Ruth Marlene Friesen

P.S. What high school grad would skip her banquet to dash away to help a friend in a crisis? Would you? Ruthe does this right at the beginning of this story. She can be quite daring for a shy, small town girl, when it is for others’ sakes. You’ll like her spunk! Get “Ruthe’s Secret Roses.” the softcover at Booklocker.com