Can't believe we've reached day 300 of our reading through the Bible in a year journey! This experience following the Longing for God reading plan has been such a blessing and reminded me of the broad overview of Scripture that I haven't seen for awhile. So good. And now only 60+ days to go. I'm looking forward to having time to focus in on more detailed studies of certain chapters and books in the Bible after I finish this reading program.
Today as I was reading in John 18, we find Jesus being taken to Pilate for judgment. Pilate questions Jesus, looking for a loophole to set Him free. And it also seems that Pilate is curious for understanding and knowledge. "What is truth?" he asks Jesus. But the problem is, even if Jesus tells him the truth, Pilate is not willing to follow it at the sacrifice to himself.
Ellen White writes:
"Pilate longed to deliver Jesus. But he saw that he could not do this, and yet retain his own position and honor. Rather than lose his worldly power, he chose to sacrifice an innocent life. How many, to escape loss or suffering, in like manner sacrifice principle. Conscience and duty point one way, and self-interest points another. The current sets strongly in the wrong direction, and he who compromises with evil is swept away into the thick darkness of guilt.
Pilate yielded to the demands of the mob. Rather than risk losing his position, he delivered Jesus up to be crucified. But in spite of his precautions, the very thing he dreaded afterward came upon him. His honors were stripped from him, he was cast down from his high office, and, stung by remorse and wounded pride, not long after the crucifixion he ended his own life. So all who compromise with sin will gain only sorrow and ruin. “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Proverbs 14:12. (Desire of Ages, p. 738)So how do we respond today when confronted with TRUTH! Will we follow, will we obey, or will we seek the safe path to protect our reputation or something else of perceived importance?
My prayer is that I may know TRUTH, the truth that alone comes through a knowledge of God's Word, and as He reveals Himself to me afresh, I will follow.... no matter the pain or sacrifice.
Tomorrow's Reading: Jer. 51-52 and Ps. 119:73-96
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