4/13/2019  1 Comment (at the bottom of this reflection.)

Today's question:
"Should you hit a man for telling the truth?​ "

From John 18:
Then Pilate entered the headquarters again, summoned Jesus, and asked him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" Jesus answered, “Do you ask this on your own, or did others tell you about me?"

Reflection from Renee Edmondson

How easily are you influenced?  When others are gossiping and saying things that might not be true, do you participate?  Are you able to walk away when others start stirring up trouble or do you jump right in because the people you are with are people you want to be like? Or liked by them? Are you the kind of person who goes with the flow rather than stand out by taking a stand? Even though going with the flow might compromise your integrity?
 
Pilate was in a quandary. He didn’t have a basis for a charge against Jesus. He didn’t know what Jesus had done to create such an uprising. But the crowds were so loud and determined! So he asked Jesus if he was the King of the Jews and Jesus answered, “Is this your own personal question? Or is it because others are saying this about me?”
 
I believe Jesus looked into Pilate’s heart and knew that if it were up to Pilate, he would not be charged or ultimately, crucified.  But Pilate was influenced, and since he was in a tough spot, he decided to give everyone what they wanted – even though he didn’t necessarily agree. 
Pilate chose not to take a stand – he went with the flow – he played the politics and yielded to the angry crowds.
 
What would you have done?  How easily are you influenced?  

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Comments

Pastor Irene Taylor
Wed, Apr 17, 2019 at 3:49 pm
Thanks for the thought-provoking reflection. Following the crowd, in the end, can be costly. 

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About Today's Author

Renee Edmondson is a life-long United Methodist. She is married to Randy and they have three children; Megan, Libby and Matt and now a son-in-law Ryan. 

​She works at Wespath Benefits and Investments, a general agency of the United Methodist Church, where she manages meetings and events. She loves bowling on Thursday nights, reading great books and getting her hands dirty planting flowers and being outside.   
 
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