Today is Ash Wednesday which begins the period of Lent — 40 days to prepare our hearts for Easter resurrection. This holy season is helpful for all Christians to appreciate the cross of Christ and their opportunity to take up their cross and follow Christ for the joy set before them.
To help you open your heart to Christ and the abundant life that comes through his cross and resurrection I have prepared for you a series of meditations based on the ancient Stations of the Cross. Here is the first one:
No Condemnation: Jesus is Condemned by Pilate
Scripture
“Many [religious leaders on the Sanhedrin] testified falsely against Jesus… But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer” (Mark 14:56, 61).
“The chief priests accused Jesus of many things. So again Pilate asked him, ‘Aren’t you going to answer? See how many things they are accusing you of.’ But Jesus still made no reply, and Pilate was amazed” (Mark 15:3-5)
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, when you were wrongly condemned by the religious leaders and by Pilate, yet you didn’t defend yourself — you remained quiet, resting secure in your Abba’s approval. In the light of your holiness it is clear that you are the true Judge. O Lord, forgive me for times I have been judgmental of others. Help me to share your grace with others and when I am judged helped me not to be defensive or react in anger, but to keep silence with you, knowing that you will make things right in your time and that now and always you embrace me in Abba’s love.
Reflection
Have you felt judged recently? Have you been judging others? What would it mean for you to rely on Jesus with you in these situations?
Self-Denial
Give up judgementalism — accepting it from others or doing it to others — and rest quietly in the Father’s approval for you and also those you’re struggling with.
Breath Prayer
“Jesus… I keep silence with you when ________.”
Additional Meditation
Many people fast for Lent as a way to draw closer to Christ. There are a variety of ways to do this. My article, “Fasting is Feasting Prayer“, will help you understand and practice fasting in a way that is inspiring and transformational.
This has been so helpful to me personally and to ministry leaders and other Christ-followers that I have worked with in therapy or spiritual direction.
