Are You the King of the Jews? “It is as You say.”

 Good morning. When Judas saw that Jesus had been condemned, he felt remorse and returned the 30 pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders. What was Judas expecting/hoping for when he betrayed Jesus; wasn't it this? “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” They answered, “what is that to us? See to that yourself!” He threw the pieces of silver into the sanctuary and went away and hanged himself. The chief priests did not know what to do with the money. It was not lawful to put it into the treasury since it was the price of blood. They bought the potter’s field as a burial place for strangers. Now we go to Jesus being questioned by Pilate. “Are You the King of the Jews?” Of course that was a ridiculous concept. Standing before him was someone who was obviously a commoner. Possibly he said it with a touch of sarcasm. Jesus, “It is as You say.” Of course there was no crime in thinking that – it might mean that you are insane, but not a criminal. The chief priests and elders accused Him of many things; but Jesus made no answer. The governor was amazed that He did not respond. Pilate wanted to know if they wanted him to release Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ. Pilate’s wife sent word to him to have nothing to do with this righteous man; for last night she suffered greatly in a dream because of Him. The chief priests and the elders persuaded the mob to ask for Barabbas, and to put Jesus to death. Pilate washed his hands and said that he was innocent of this man's blood – see to that yourselves. “His blood be on us and on our children!” After having Jesus scourged, he delivered Him to be crucified. Father thank You that Jesus did not take the easy way out. Everything went according to Your plan.

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