Let the Games Begin

Scripture – Luke 23:13-19: 13Pilate called together the chief priests, the rulers and the people, 14and said to them, “You brought me this man as one who was inciting the people to rebellion. I have examined him in your presence and have found no basis for your charges against him. 15Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us; as you can see, he has done nothing to deserve death. 16Therefore, I will punish him and then release him.” 18With one voice they cried out, “Away with this man! Release Barabbas to us!” 19(Barabbas had been thrown into prison for an insurrection in the city, and for murder.)

Reflection: An intriguing power struggle begins here between Pilate and the Jewish leaders. Pilate, as Rome’s representative, has the authority to release Jesus. He doesn’t need anyone else to okay it. In the big picture of the Roman empire, this amounts to nothing.

Yet Pilate is not as free as he could be. There are political implications guiding him that have nothing to do with “official” power. The Jewish leaders know this. They have a power of their own. They know they can exercise their faith because Rome allows it. They also know if they cause trouble it will look bad for Pilate. And Pilate does not want to have any hassles from Rome.

So this is the beginning of a stand-off of sorts. Pilate makes his move. The Jewish leaders make theirs. What’s going to happen next?