The Price He Paid

Scripture – Mark 14:60-65: ⁶⁰Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, “Are you not going to answer? What is this testimony that these men are bringing against you?” ⁶¹But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?” ⁶²“I am,” said Jesus. “And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” ⁶³The high priest tore his clothes. “Why do we need any more witnesses?” he asked. ⁶⁴“You have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?” They all condemned him as worthy of death. ⁶⁵Then some began to spit at him; they blindfolded him, struck him with their fists, and said, “Prophesy!” And the guards took him and beat him.

Reflection: The raw courage of Jesus to open himself up to the physical pain He would endure is striking to me. The prospect of that is something I’m very much afraid of. I never saw “The Passion” movie because I don’t like watching graphic violence. (That’s why I don’t watch any of the “Saw” movies, either.)

I’m reminded in all that Jesus endured, He was never out of control. He could have stopped it any time. This was part of the gift He gave humankind.

Lord Jesus, give me courage today to face whatever comes – to embrace whatever cost may come with following you. You know how weak I can be. I trust you to give me all I need to serve you this day. Thank you for trusting me.