On Palm Sunday, there was a shout in the air! It was a shot of celebration. The people were happy; finally, they could see a light at the end of the tunnel of Roman Rule. Their champion was finally here. Today, there was a different shout. They were shouting crucify Him. What caused the change?
Matthew 27 gives an account of the process that led to Jesus’ death. Many times, we wonder how people could change their opinion of someone and forget all the good that they have done. Well, there were those who were not happy with Jesus and His power and authority. When these emotions are present, they can cause people to do strange things. It can cause a shift in their value system.
What caused the shift? “Meanwhile, the leading priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas to be released and for Jesus to be put to death.” (Matthew 27:20 NLT). They misused their influence so that the people would choose a dangerous criminal to be re-enter the community and rejected the righteous Jesus. The same Jesus who healed their sick and raised their dead.
Pilate was having a problem; he knew what they were asking was unjust. Pilate responded, “Then what should I do with Jesus who is called the Messiah?” They shouted back, “Crucify him!” (Verse 22). So, Jesus took the penalty reserved for a criminal and the crowd chose that criminal to released into society to continue to prey on the public. The leading priests and elders were ecstatic because they killed Him. They were unaware that His death was God’s plan for the world. They thought that they took His life: Jesus laid it down. They thought they were victorious: Jesus was victorious over sin and death. Their plan was to do evil, but God allowed them to put their evil plan into action for the good of humanity.
The Apostle Peter said, “Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit;” (1 Peter 3:18). Jesus paid the price for all of those who participated in His death. While He hung on the cross, “Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34) It was not an easy road but He went to Calvary so humanity could be free from the power of sin.
Thought for Today: Friend, Jesus did it for you; accept His gift today.
Have a blessed day and walk in faith and victory.
Victory Walk 