Confusion

 And he released to them the one they requested, who for rebellion and murder had been thrown into prison; but he delivered Jesus to their will . Luke 23:25

I have no particular current world situation in mind as I pen these thoughts, for there are many; some will no doubt come to your mind as you read.  As I read the account of Jesus' trial and sentencing, I imagined afresh the confusion in many minds as they watched this farce play out.

The crowds cried out for an innocent to be put to death and for a murderer to be released. What was Pilate to do?  His wife had warned him not to touch this man, she'd had a dream.  Yet not only was the crowd calling for his execution but the religious leaders were too. Pilate had power to make the call but he wanted to have the favour of the people. Finally he washed his hands of the matter he couldn't face and handed Jesus over to his own people.  Was it cowardice?  Who am I to say?  He did, however, have the last say through the customary written charge on Jesus' cross. He wrote "This is the king of the Jews", and he refused to change it when the people complained (John 19:21).

Can you imagine the confusion of his followers as they watched this play out; the pain and disappointment when Jesus finally died? Surely this could not be God's will, this man demonstrated his power over sickness, disease and death, wind and waves and so much more.  Why this waste? In hindsight we know it wasn't waste at all but the greatest gift ever given to the human race. Jesus gave his life, it wasn't taken from him.

We have all been touched by confusion at seeming injustice in our world.  We have cried out to God to protect his people, save our sick, bring justice, have mercy; then watched as our cry seemingly went unheeded and unanswered.  Why God, why? We know you have the power....

We may never know, and certainly never understand why such sad, even terrible things occur, especially to God's people.  But Jesus did tell us that 'in this world we will have trouble'  (John 16:33, Matt 24).  The word for 'trouble' can mean pressure, oppression, affliction, tribulation and distress.  Our trouble can take many forms, and when it comes we have the choice to remain in confusion, or to rest in the confession that Jesus has overcome the world.  This is not the end, it's part of the journey.  

The battle here on earth seems to continue but it has been won in the heavenlies; Satan does not get the final say.  If we choose to trust God's wisdom even when we cannot understand, our confusion will turn to peace.  The reason Jesus warned us that we will have trouble is so we that won't be taken by surprise when it comes, but rather rest in peace in the knowledge that he is still in control.

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, thank you that even when I am confused and troubled by things around me, I can rest confidently in your peace, knowing that, though the enemy may triumph for awhile, the final victory is yours.  Hallelujah! Amen