I FIND NO FAULT IN THIS MAN

Text: Luke 23:1-12

SCRIPTURE: vs 4 

Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, I find no fault in this man.

Pilate, the one who was to condemn Jesus, said "I Find no fault in this man". Yet, he went ahead to condemn him to death. It  is so much joy to know that Jesus did not die because of any fault of his own. He says, "I lay down  my life for the sheep, no man takes it from me, but I lay it down of myself , I have power to lay it down and I have power to take it up again. This commandment have I received of my father" (John 10:15-18).

 It was his mandate to lay his life down as a ransom for many. He did it because except a corn of wheat falls to the ground and dies it abides alone, but if it dies, it brings forth much fruit. And after his death, he was lifted up from the earth and he drew all men to himself. (John 12: 20-34) 

Today's reading shows us that everything Jesus predicted came to pass. Although Pilate the governor of Judea found no fault in him and neither did Herod, he still sentenced him to death. He that was crucified, what  wrong did he do to the world? None whatsoever. Rather Isaiah tells us that he was wounded for our transgression, he was bruised for our iniquities, the chastisement of our peace was upon him and with his stripes we are healed (Isaiah 53: 5). 

What manner of love is this that compels a man to lay down his life for his friends. He died for you and me. He committed no crime even though he was killed as a criminal. In fact Barabbas the criminal was released instead of him. We all are the criminal Barabbas. We were on the death row but, Jesus having received the mandate from the father, accepted to die on our behalf. What have you done for him in appreciation? 

Father, the love you demonstrated in Jesus is beyond comprehension. At your decree he bowed to suffering and death in the hands of sinners for the sinners. Grant that as we celebrate this Easter, we may fan aflame this love in our hearts and live lives worthy of your son's death. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.