Jesus and Pilate

In the Garden of Gethsemane Jesus fell before God saying, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as You will.” (Matthew 26:39 NASB)

The journey to the cross involves two individuals with immeasurable power – Jesus, the Son of God, and Pilate, the Roman governor. God never intended to use His power to prevent the crucifixion of Jesus from occurring even though He had ample opportunity to do so. Instead, we see Him using the crucifixion to demonstrate His call for us to cease living in the flesh and instead, seek to live in the Spirit.

When we read the passage of Pilate and hear of his wife’s dream, it is hard to understand why the journey to the cross had to continue. Jesus came to live among us. His question in the Garden of Gethsemane demonstrates that He lived in the flesh, just as we do, and yet, He answered God’s call to walk the journey to the cross in the Spirit.

We all have crosses to bear. We may be asking God to pass the cup from us. As we journey through the Lenten season, may we ask God for the strength to carry our cross, knowing that walking by the Spirit is a moment by moment choice – a constant humble and righteous surrender.

Father, in our flesh it is easy to become overwhelmed by the crosses we have to bear in our lives. You remind us that we do not have to journey alone, that You are always near to us. Guide us in our spiritual walk this Lenten season and help us to surrender our struggles to You. Amen.