False news, misinformation, and partisan politics cast a shadow on objectivity and polarize our society. It was no different in Jesus' day. Those in power could dictate what was right and wrong while those who thought differently were labeled as heretics and outcasts. Sometimes, it seems like our life is at stake for what we believe. It may be easier just to agree with others, to turn in our consciences, and to judge and condemn those who think differently.

Jesus stood up for and loved those who had no right to speak up, who lived in the shadows of society. He raised the dead to life. When people believed in him, a new life was being born, only it seemed to threaten those in power. Caiaphas, the high priest, determined that Jesus must be put to death to save their people—and their own power and influence. While his motive may not have been pure, the words spoke true to what Jesus was trying to accomplish.

Being a marked man was not easy for Jesus. But he did not shrink into oblivion. In God's time, Jesus would triumph, not through political power, but through death and resurrection.
Application: Lord, you loved us enough to die for us. Give me courage to live with resurrection faith.
One Word: Believe in Jesus