It was common for prisoners who were condemned to crucifixion to have to carry their own cross to the place of crucifixion. As they carried the cross, they were paraded through crowds of people as a symbol of the power and might of Rome. As Jesus carried his cross, he would have been weak from the physical punishment – of beatings and floggings – that he had already received. The flogging he had received was enough in some instances to kill someone. Yet here, the carrying of the cross was the penultimate humiliation, second only

We might find it surprising that even as Jesus hangs on the cross, he faces mocking, not only from the crowd, but even from a fellow prisoner crucified besides him. His mocking sums up much of what others have been saying. If Jesus is God, if he’s the Messiah and is meant to save the world, then surely his death must be a failure. Yet what the criminal and everyone else can’t see, is that it is through his death that Jesus’ mission of salvation will be realised. He could of course save himself, yet he willingly faces death (hence no wine with gall), in order that those who trust in him will be saved. AL

Questions

Why do you think it is often easier for people to make fun of Jesus rather than to really face up to his claims? How do you think Jesus would have felt as he endured such mockery? In light of all that Jesus faced, why should we not be surprised when we face mockery too? How are we best to respond to this?

Prayer

Loving Saviour, thank you that nothing would deter you from the cross. Thank you that you endured all agony and humiliation, that through your death we might receive eternal life. Please help us to be inspired by your example, especially when we face mockery for our trust in you. May all our identity and strength be in you and you alone. Amen.