March 22, 2005

If you are a Roman Catholic, or at least someone familiar with the Stations of the Cross, know that underneath each station is a very brief description: for example, Jesus falls, or Jesus meets His Mother. If I had the opportunity to name each station, I would call the first station “Pilate’s Choice”.

As you know, Pontius Pilate, the Roman Governor, washed his hands – quite literally – of the guilt over the condemnation of Jesus. This symbolic gesture was made to publicly “get him off the hook”. In short, he was saying to the crowd “I am not responsible” and “I am innocent of this mans blood”. What a pathetic attempt to bow out of an ugly, politically devastating scenario. An ocean of water couldn’t wash away his guilt.

In the Church’s ancient profession of faith, which we call the Creed, we are reminded every Sunday not only that Christ suffered, but who was responsible. We recite and remember, “…He was born of the Virgin Mary… He was crucified under Pontius Pilate… He suffered, died and was buried…” The Creed reminds us that our Lord was condemned not by a crowd or by public opinion, but rather by a person who allowed himself to be persuaded by both.

Those who are voted into public office are called to protect the innocent and punish the guilty – not to do the opposite. Let us thank God and pray for governors who even today stand firm in the face of public opinion and stand up for life.

The drama which we recall this Holy Week is being lived out today – and everyone is present in the praetorium. Let us pray that this time God protects the innocent from injustice and strengthens those in authority so that by the grace of God, Pilate’s choice may not be repeated.

Fr. Terry Messer, CFR
San Juan Diego Residence, Albuquerque, New Mexico

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