Station 3, Day 3

Jesus is condemned by the Sanhedrin

When day came, the assembly of the elders of the people, both chief priests and scribes, gathered together, and they brought him to their council. They said, “If you are the Messiah, tell us.” He replied, “If I tell you, you will not believe; and if I question you, you will not answer. But from now on the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the power of God.” All of them asked, “Are you, then, the Son of God?” He said to them, “You say that I am.” Then they said, “What further testimony do we need? We have heard it ourselves from his own lips.”[1]

Luke 22:66-71

Meditation

            At first glance, Jesus’ response does not seem to be the admission the Sanhedrin concludes it to be. They ask if he is the Son of God, and he responds, “You say that I am.” The phrase that likely sets his accusers off is “I am,” which is the name of God recorded in the book of Exodus, as given to Moses at the burning bush.

            Once Jesus’ words provide the court the proof they are looking for – that he is claiming to be the Son of God – they send Jesus off to the Roman authorities who govern that particular region. The Sanhedrin are allowed to provide religious services to the people but are not allowed to crucify those they believe to be worthy of crucifixion.

Spiritual Discipline

Enter a time of silence for 10 minutes. Attempt to let go of the trials of the moment – your to do list, your stressors at work or home, the pressing needs of family. Deliberately turn off your inner dialogue by acknowledging thoughts as they come to you, then letting them go. Breathe deeply and internalize whatever degree of silence you can attain. There is no pressure to receive insights or inspiration. Experiencing silence is sufficient.

Prayer

            Jesus, the Christ, the Son of Humankind and Son of God, in you lies my salvation. My ancestors accused you of being exactly who you are – the Son of God. Their reaction was to have you killed. May my reaction be to give you the love and respect you deserve. Amen.

This is the 13^thin a daily series titled The Stations of the Cross that will run through Easter 2026, at which time I will return to my weekly Life Notes. Life Notes are my explorations into mysteries that interest me. They are invitations for readers to explore more deeply into life’s mysteries. Engage with me or explore contemplative spiritual direction at ghildenbrand@outlook.com.

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[1] Luke 22:66-71