Jesus stands in the most human
of places. He has already experienced profound solidarity with so many on
this earth, by being beaten and tortured. Now he is wrongfully condemned to
punishment by death. His commitment to entering our lives completely begins
its final steps. He has said "yes" to God and placed his life in God's hands.
We follow him in this final surrender, and contemplate with reverence each
place along the way, as he is broken and given for us.
As I view the scene, I become
moved by both outrage and gratitude. I look at Jesus. His face. The crown
of thorns. The blood. His clothes stuck to the wounds on his back. Pilate
washes his hands of the whole affair. Jesus' hands are tied behind his back.
This is for me. That I might be free. That I might have eternal life. As the
journey begins I ask to be with Jesus. To follow his journey. I express my
love and thanks.
