Stations of the Cross - Fifth Station: Jesus is Judged by Pilate

*Note for Catholics: The following stations of the cross are presented here as an alternative to the traditional stations that you would know. This alternative set ties in scripture, and serves as a way of reflecting more deeply on the Scriptural accounts of Christ's passion, for the benefit of our protestant brothers and sisters on this journey.

Examination of conscience
Please take a couple of minutes becoming aware of the things we have done to offend God in the last 24 hours.

Act of Contrition
Lord, too many times have I put own own rules over Yours. I am so sorry I have turned against Your ways, which lead to Heaven. And I'm sorry I have followed my own way so often, which leads nowhere. I want to listen to Your way, and follow it whole-heartedly.

Fifth Station: Jesus is Judged by Pilate

The chief priests with the elders and the scribes, that is, the whole Sanhedrin, held a council. They bound Jesus, led him away, and handed him over to Pilate. Pilate questioned him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" He said to him in reply, "You say so." The chief priests accused him of many things. Again Pilate questioned him, "Have you no answer? See how many things they accuse you of." Jesus gave him no further answer, so that Pilate was amazed.... Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released Barrabas... [and] handed [Jesus] over to be crucified. - Mark 15: 1-5, 15

Reflection
Often, when we are pressured, we allow wrong to take precedence over good. Rather than standing up for what's right, we'd rather lay back and accept the evil that happens around us. A true appreciation for Christ's suffering for righteousness must lead us to a willingness to stand up for what is right.

Prayer
Lord, grant us discernment that we may see as you see, not as the world sees.