March 23, 2022

(c) 2022 Josephine Lombardi

The Gospels tell us that Jesus was physically beaten and verbally abused throughout his trial. Jesus, an innocent man, is misunderstood, betrayed and tortured for proclaiming the truth. When the crowd is asked to choose between Barabbas, a criminal who was in prison for committing murder, and Jesus, the one who healed many and fed the multitudes, the crowd chooses Barabbas. Emotion, misunderstanding, poor judgment and fear have led to this choice. When we are afraid, our ability to reason is compromised.

Some of Jesus’ actions were misunderstood and criticized. Moreover, Jesus had uncovered the lies of many and had challenged those who were arrogant and proud. Those who are challenged in this way, especially if they lack humility and repentance, will resent the one who exposes their lies and vices. Jesus becomes a scapegoat for the sins of others. Those who fear exposure would rather slander and scapegoat someone else than admit their guilt. The crowd would rather choose illusion and falsehood than truth, because truth demands humility, sacrifice and the exposure of hypocrisy. Many have projected their sins and guilt onto Jesus, and this leads to his suffering and death.

If truth threatens, it is controlled, silenced or killed. Where do you find the strength you need to speak the truth, especially when it is difficult to do so? Have you suffered for proclaiming the truth?