Daily Devotion for March 19, 2006

To Jerusalem with the ComPassionate Christ
Day 19

Blasphemy

 

The high priest tore his clothes. "Why do we need any more witnesses?" he asked.  "You have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?" Mark 14: 63-64a

 

No wonder the high priest tore his robes at the blasphemy he had heard. The wonder of it was that Jesus was not lynched then and there. It was probably an indication of Caiaphas’ fear of the Romans that Jesus survived, but not for long.

 

In Jewish society to tear the clothes as Caiaphas did, was to convey the impression that something dreadful had happened. There were carefully crafted rules of decorum, which probably required that Caiaphas did not tear his clothes too much, but the message given was clear. Jesus had blasphemed and was worthy only of death. There were also carefully crafted rules of procedure for the examination of those accused, but Caiaphas took no notice of them whatsoever.

 

Slipping completely from his role as arbiter to that of accuser, Caiaphas asked the others present why they had any need of further witnesses. They themselves were witnesses to Jesus’ unmistakable blasphemy. Or were they?

 

In his zeal, Caiaphas failed to recognize the distinction between a claim to be the Messiah, and a false claim. He simply assumed that the claim was false, without considering any evidence at all. In fact, if he had cared to examine the evidence he would have seen plenty to suggest that Jesus’ claims should be taken seriously. As high priest, and defender of the Hebrew Scriptures, Caiaphas believed in the Messiah. He just could not see that Jesus might be the One.  You see, they were looking for a Messiah who would establish an earthly Kingdom and would do away with their enemies.  Jesus was going to do no such thing!

 

Prayer
Dear Lord, forgive me for the times that I too see you differently than for what you are.  Help me to understand your Kingdom, Your Eternal Kingdom, Your message of love and forgiveness to enemies!  Amen

 

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