In this last week of the liturgical year, we remember Jesus Christ as our king. He is the king of the Kingdom of God, which he came to usher in. At the trial, before his crucifixion, the conversation between Jesus and Pilate about his kingship was significant.
We still have kings and queens today, but they mostly live and work in a
carefully constructed framework. They are not ‘absolute’ monarchs but ‘constitutional’ monarchs who reign within careful limits. They can place subtle pressure on politicians but cannot demand anything. Of course, there are still many dictatorships worldwide where democracy is lacking.
In Jesus’ day, however, everyone understood what being a king or queen meant. They had absolute power and did precisely as they pleased. This is why
Jesus’ kingship was considered threatening to the Roman Empire. If Jesus were seen to oppose Caesar, who saw himself as a god, let alone a king, the chief priests knew that he would be done away with. This is what they wished to happen and why they took Jesus to Pilate.
So, Pilate, the Roman Governor, questioned Jesus about his claim to be King of the Jews. Within Pilate’s frame of reference, this was a laughable idea. He saw a
poor man from the wrong part of the country before him. Jesus had a small band of followers who’d all run away. Of course, Jesus was not the king. But maybe he thought he was. Perhaps he was deluded.
Notice how Pilate quietly and discreetly questioned Jesus about this matter inside the palace, away from the crowds. This was a severe and life-threatening accusation against Jesus, and Pilate wanted to know that he had the story straight.
The humble man in front of Pilate did not seem like a revolutionary. He did not want to put Jesus to death unnecessarily or because of the chief priests' vindictiveness.
Think back. Have you been accused of something without your accusers understanding your situation?
How have you reacted in those situations?
How might you, as a child of your true
king and judge, have reacted differently – like Jesus?
Where are you perhaps called to be merciful and forgiving while upholding the truth?
Reflections by Reggie
Venter
