Listen
Read
Mark 15: 1-5, 15 nrsv
As soon as it was morning, the chief priests held a consultation with
the elders and scribes and the whole council. They bound Jesus, led
him away, and handed him over to Pilate. Pilate asked him, “Are you
the King of the Jews?” He answered him, “You say so.” Then the chief
priests accused him of many things. Pilate asked him again, “Have
you no answer? See how many charges they bring against you.” But
Jesus made no further reply, so that Pilate was amazed.
Look
Observe the visual qualities of the image: line, shape, movement, and
texture. How do the visual elements connect to the scripture text?
What emotions emerge for you as you observe the art?
Reflect
“The crown represents the misunderstanding of Jesus’ power.
Many thought the Messiah was to be a strong, powerful, militaristic
rebellion commander. Kings and governors feared he would be a
threat to the crown; a menacing, dethroning force. But Jesus was a
servant leader. He spent his days with and serving the downtrodden,
the poor, and the meek. Jesus was condemned to death for a crown
he did not wear. Pilate’s hand points Jesus to his death, attempting to
silence the truth he spoke to power.” —Artist Lauren Wright Pittman
Pray
May I defy the attraction of earthly power, elevate the voices of the
marginalized, and speak truth to the powers that oppress. Amen.