Mark 15:1-15

by loisem

We are presented here in Mark with the power of the mob, the people stirred up by those in positions of power among the Jewish people, the chief priests. And we have Pilate, in a position of judgment over Jesus, speaking to the people, saying “But what crime has he committed?” He sought their permission, unable to act on what he knew was just.

Notwithstanding our acceptance that what happened—Jesus’ death—was essential to giving us a way to live, I can’t help but feel despair over Pilate’s inability to act on his own judgment of Jesus, to act on the courage of his convictions.

Pilate was a leader. He made clear his judgment but did not act on it. The chief priests and people, it seems to me, go down in infamy for the horror of their vile use of power. But Pilate is a special case for us to remember. In a most crucial moment in history, he knew and did not act.

                                                                                          —Norma Killilea