The high priest then questioned Jesus about His disciples and His teaching. Jesus answered him, "I have spoken openly to the world. I have always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all Jews come together. I have said nothing in secret. Why do you ask Me? Ask those who have heard Me what I said to them; they know what I said." When He had said these things, one of the officers standing by struck Jesus with his hand, saying, "Is that how You answer the high priest?" Jesus answered him, "If what I said is wrong, bear witness about the wrong; but if what I said is right, why do you strike Me?" (John 18:19-23)

Jesus points out what everybody knew—that under Jewish law, you were supposed to question witnesses, not the prisoner. If you couldn't find two people who saw the crime and agreed on what happened, the prisoner went free.

Of course, Jesus wasn't going to get a fair trial. His enemies wanted Him dead, and they were willing to trample the law to get what they wanted.

But not Jesus. What He wanted was to see the real lawbreakers go free—you and me and the rest of the guilty, shameful human race. He wanted to see us forgiven and washed clean, at peace with God forever, living in freedom and joy. How?

Jesus took our place. As the innocent Lamb of God, He suffered death for all of us. And now everyone who trusts in Him will share in His resurrection—to a life of joy and peace with God.

WE PRAY: Lord, thank You for wanting me to live—and giving Your life to make it happen. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

* Name one thing you want with all your heart.

* What would you be willing to pay to make it happen?

* Why is Jesus willing to pay such a high price for you?

Lenten Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.

Today's Bible Readings: Numbers 17-19    Mark 15:1-25

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