Station 5, Day 1

Station 5, Day 1

Jesus is judged by Pilate

Pilate then called together the chief priests, the leaders, and the people, and said to them, “You brought me this man as one who was perverting the people; and here I have examined him in your presence and have not found this man guilty of any of your charges against him. Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us. Indeed, he has done nothing to deserve death. I will therefore have him flogged and release him.” Then they all shouted out together, “Away with this fellow! Release Barabbas for us!” (This was a man who had been put in prison for an insurrection that had taken place in the city, and for murder.) Pilate, wanting to release Jesus, addressed them again; but they kept shouting, “Crucify, crucify him!” A third time he said to them, “Why, what evil has he done? I have found in him no ground for the sentence of death; I will therefore have him flogged and then release him.” But they kept urgently demanding with loud shouts that he should be crucified; and their voices prevailed. So Pilate gave his verdict that their demand should be granted. He released the man they asked for, the one who had been put in prison for insurrection and murder, and he handed Jesus over as they wished.[1] Luke 23:13-25

Meditation

            The fifth Station of the Cross occurs in the courtyard of Pilate, the Roman governor. The Temple authorities had found Jesus guilty of blasphemy and sentenced him to die. They did not, however, have the legal authority to crucify anyone, so they appeal to their Roman authority, Pilate. Rome, however, will not put someone to death for blasphemy, so the Temple leaders accuse Jesus of insurrection against the Roman government, saying he claimed to be “King” of the Jews. Pilate questions Jesus and finds him innocent, announcing he will have him flogged, and then release him.

            In many ways, this situation is the third betrayal of Jesus in a matter of hours. First, Judas betrays Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. Second, Peter betrays Jesus in the courtyard of the chief priest. Finally, Jesus is betrayed by the Temple leaders, who alter the charge against him.

Spiritual Discipline

Fast for the next 4 days by waking up and starting your day 15 minutes earlier than usual, using the time for study, reflection, and prayer. When you wake up and realize it is early, remember Jesus before Pilate. Whenever you feel tired throughout the day, remember Jesus standing on trial after a sleepless night. As you prepare for bed in the evening, feeling more tired than usual, remember Jesus being accused by those he came to save.

Prayer

            Jesus, my Lord and Savior, your suffering and torment is beyond my comprehension. Remind me, as I struggle through my days, that you have experienced suffering far worse than mine. Amen.

This is the 18^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 23:13-25