Luke 23: 7-16
7 When he learned that Jesus was under Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who was also in Jerusalem at that time.
8 When Herod saw Jesus, he was greatly pleased, because for a long time he had been wanting to see him. From what he had heard about him, he hoped to see him perform a sign of some sort. 9 He plied him with many questions, but Jesus gave him no answer. 10 The chief priests and the teachers of the law were standing there, vehemently accusing him. 11 Then Herod and his soldiers ridiculed and mocked him. Dressing him in an elegant robe, they sent him back to Pilate. 12 That day Herod and Pilate became friends – before this they had been enemies. 13 Pilate called together the chief priests, the rulers and the people, 14 and said to them, ‘You brought me this man as one who was inciting the people to rebellion. I have examined him in your presence and have found no basis for your charges against him. 15 Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us; as you can see, he has done nothing to deserve death. 16 Therefore, I will punish him and then release him.’
Herod and the and the chief priests angered me so much for ridiculing Jesus – mocking him- But Jesus didn’t seem angry, so I asked him about that. He said I already know what I have to do. I can ignore people like Herod. They only do these things out of their own disappointments and insecurities. I still have pain even though I understand where it comes from…. But no anger.
Boy, how healthy to allow Herod to have his own problems without striking back, defending himself, or becoming angry.
Do I become angry and ridicule others due to my disappointments and insecurities? I have been on the receiving end of ridicule. I know how it feels. Why then do I continue treating others like this?
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