“There was also an inscription over him, ‘This is the King of the Jews.’” (Luke 23:38)
Even as Jesus hung on the cross, He was still the object of ridicule. What a contrast to His own words, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do”! (Luke 23:34). In the midst of all the injustice, pain and humiliation, Jesus prayed for forgiveness for those who crucify Him.
The people standing around watching laughed at Jesus.
The leaders made fun of Him: if He is the Christ, let Him redeem Himself!
The soldiers mockingly cried out: if He is the King of the Jews, let Him come down from the cross!
Finally Pilate took revenge on the Jewish leaders by putting a scornful sign above Jesus’ head: this is the King of the Jews. Legible to all, in three languages, here was the truth no one wanted to believe. The King of the Jews, the King of the whole world even, hung like a criminal between heaven and earth.
However, a day is coming when all people will have to acknowledge that Jesus is the supreme Lord. Even the people who mocked and killed Him. That will happen when Jesus comes to earth again, as Judge, in full glory.
Do you accept Jesus as your King and Lord? What does that mean to you?
Image by James Tissot Collection (Brooklyn Museum), available on the website of Free Bible Images