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Jesus was brought before Pilate and Herod, though both declared Him innocent (vv. 4, 14–15). Yet the crowds demanded Barabbas’s release instead, and Pilate gave in, handing Jesus over to be crucified (vv. 18–25). On the way to Golgotha, Simon of Cyrene carried the cross, and Jesus warned the women of Jerusalem about coming judgment (vv. 26–31). At the cross, He prayed for His executioners, was mocked by rulers and soldiers, and promised Paradise to the repentant thief beside Him (vv. 32–43). At His death, darkness fell, the temple veil tore, and a centurion declared His innocence (vv. 44–49).
Joseph of Arimathea courageously asked for Jesus’ body and placed it in his own tomb, while the women prepared spices but rested on the Sabbath (vv. 50–56). Luke’s account emphasizes both Jesus’ innocence and His saving work on the cross—dying as the spotless Lamb who forgives sinners and opens the way to God.
🌀 Reflection:
Jesus endured injustice, suffering, and death—not because He was guilty, but because we are. At the cross, we see His heart of mercy, His power to save, and His obedience to the Father. Reflect today on the wonder that the innocent Son of God bore your guilt and gave you His righteousness.
💬 Mission Challenge:
Share with someone this week the hope of the repentant thief—that no one is beyond the reach of Jesus’ mercy. Invite them to trust the Savior who still says, “You will be with me in Paradise.”
Just Keith Harris 
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