This is our B moment. Our moment to be still…to be fed by the Word of God…to be grateful.
Scripture reference: Psalm 27:1 (ESV)
Today, I am thinking about the two different perspectives on power.
Recently, we’ve been tracing the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion. As Jesus went before Pilate, he taught us an important lesson about ultimate power.
When Jesus stepped in front of the crowd, they shouted, “Crucify him! Crucify him!” Yet Pilate told them that he believed that Jesus was not guilty.
However, the Jewish leaders turned to Pilate and said, “By our laws he’s guilty because he calls himself the son of God.” The Scriptures say that Pilate heard this and became more frightened than ever.
Pilate took Jesus back inside and privately asked him where he was from. To Pilate’s confusion and disbelief, Jesus didn’t respond.
Pilate then said, “Don’t you realize that I have the power to either release you or crucify you?” Jesus replied, “You have no power over me at all, unless it were given to you from above.”
Clearly Jesus, despite his dire circumstances, still knew who was ultimately in control.
This contrasted greatly with Pilate’s actions. The Jewish leaders told Pilate that if he released Jesus, he would not be considered a friend of Caesar. It is obvious that Pilate thought Caesar held the ultimate power.
It is important to realize that Jesus had it right. No matter how dire a situation has become or how high the stakes may appear, God’s power is the only power that matters.
As you reflect on that, cling to these words for strength: “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” Psalm 27:1 (ESV)
Please share this reflection as others desire to be inspired.
So today, know that there is only one ultimate power.
Thanks for today’s inspiration. For those of us who think we can control everything, it’s a reminder that GOD DOES!