Mar. 22, 2012

Luke 23:24-25

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.

When two enemies are at war with each other, the universal signal that one surrenders is a white flag. As Pilate “surrenders” Jesus, in essence he waves a white flag.

Surrender. Often it’s the choice of last resort. Sometimes we get worn down and one side has to cave in. That’s the side that surrenders.

When had you had to surrender in your life? People who deal with addictions have to surrender in order to get the addiction under control. Sometimes we give up things that are important … or not so important. The higher the stakes, the harder it is to surrender.

I think it would be fascinating to speak to someone who had to decide to raise the white flag while in battle and surrender. After the flag was raised, what emotion was felt? Despair? Relief? Defeat? Peace?

Ultimately, it wasn’t Pilate that surrendered; it was Jesus. He had to choose to surrender his life for us … or not. What emotion did he feel when Pilate finally released him for crucifixion? Despair? Relief? Defeat? Peace?

We choose whether we believe and accept his surrender … or not. Jesus waved the white flag just for you. Lent is about coming to grips with whether this means anything to you … or not.

Let us pray: Jesus paid it all. All to Him I owe. Sin has left a crimson stain; He washed it white as snow. Amen.

Blessings –

Dianne