Luke 23, Part 2

Scripture: Luke 23:6-12

Observation: Pilate decides to pass the buck. Finding out Jesus is a Galilean, he sends Him off to see Herod. Herod is excited; he's heard about Jesus and hopes to see some miracle or sign. But Jesus is not an entertainer. Herod questions Him but Jesus is quiet. His innocence had already been established before Pilate, therefore He has nothing more to say. This angers Herod, who isn't getting the show he'd anticipated. Along with this, the religious leaders continue slinging accusations. Herod joins in the mockery of Jesus (and of justice) by dressing Him in an elegant robe and sending Him back to Pilate. Herod and Pilate are now on friendly terms, because Pilate has shown respect and regard for Herod. Jesus has been used as a political pawn, and justice still does not prevail.

Application: It seems like everyone and everything has gone wrong. But in actuality all is going according to plan. Jesus had already prophesied about His trial in Luke 18:32. All is moving forward as Jesus said it would. As we look at prophesies which are to take place in the future, it's easy to way, "When?" or even, "If?" But Jesus spoke truth then, and everything God says happens just as He says. There can be no doubt: the future is in God's hands, and it will turn out just as He has said.

Prayer: Father, Your Word has existed for so many centuries that many believe it foolish to continue awaiting the return of our Lord. But we have to believe. Jesus is coming as a thief in the night, not when expected but when NOT expected. I can't and won't guess at when that will be, but I do know this: Jesus' return is imminent, because You have said it is. And it is in His Holy name I pray, Amen.