So Pilate asked Jesus, “Are you the king of the Jews?”
“You have said so,” Jesus replied.
Luke 23:3
Observation
Recently, I came across this interesting quote by Canadian psychologist, Jordan B. Peterson:
All people serve their ambition.
In that matter, there are no atheists.
There are only people who know,
and don’t know, what God they serve.
Jordan B. Peterson
We all do serve somebody or something. Pilate served his own ambition for power. And his fear of losing his power and position did lead him to condemn Jesus, who was an innocent man. What king am I serving? What moves and motivates me? What do I fear? Jesus is the upside-down king! While Pilate tries to preserve his power by sacrificing others, Jesus does establish His kingdom by giving himself or us.
Application
Like Pilate feared people`s opinion, I too struggle with that fear. I too have a tendency, as Pilate did, to wanting to establish myself based on my own ability and power. But Jesus shows us a different way: He is the truly fearless servant king, who is secure in God`s love. Let that Jesus and His love be the “king of my heart”. Let not fear of people, but the love of Jesus rule my motivations and ambitions.
Prayer
Heavenly father, thank you that you loved us so much that you gave yourself for us in Jesus. Thank you for your different way to use power. Thank you that you established your kingdom by becoming a servant of all of us. Please fill me with your Spirit! Today, I want to stand firm in your love which drives out all fear. Amen!
