Journey to the Cross 
Pause
The shadows are gathering and you are called to come away. Come away to think, to pray, to rest – and to prepare.
There are many things – right now – pulling at your mind and heart. But commit yourself to this time, these moments; God is here as always, your companion along the journey of faith, to help you focus on what awaits you now.
Open your mind and heart to Word and Spirit and Truth. Allow love to move you and to change you, even in small ways that will call you forward.
Listen
It was about noon on the Preparation Day for the Passover. Pilate said to the Jewish leaders, “Here’s your king.”
The Jewish leaders cried out, “Take him away! Take him away! Crucify him!”
Pilate responded, “What? Do you want me to crucify your king?”
“We have no king except the emperor,” the chief priests answered. Then Pilate handed Jesus over to be crucified.
John 19:14-16a
Think
This is no fantasy. This is not the product of a novelist’s imagination, conjuring up romantic conspiracies in the courts of ancient rulers. This cry for death is the result of politics at its worst.
“Politics” is not a dirty word as many believe. It’s simply the work of governing. Politics is something we should be doing together; looking out for what is best for everyone. The problem with Pilate and with the religious leaders who are conspiring against Jesus is that they are looking out only for themselves. That’s why the people demand death for the One who brings life.
This is where politics gets its bad reputation, when those in charge forget their true purpose – to serve. It’s all too common because it’s all too human.
As the darkest days of Lent continue, we who follow King Jesus continue to look inward and think about what motivates us, where our interests lie, and whom we serve.
Even as Jesus’ head is bowed, his mind is on those he loves – the children of God.
Nick Foster
Pray
God, I bow my head to you. As I do, may the love you have for your children grow in my heart. Amen.
Go
Out from the shadows God is calling you.
Even when all seems lost,
Love will not be denied.
Go now to leave the shadows;
Live into the light
Even as you await the dawn.
