"They put a purple robe on him, then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on him. And they began to call out to him, “Hail, king of the Jews!” Again and again they struck him on the head with a staff and spit on him. Falling on their knees, they paid homage to him. And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him out to crucify him."

Mark 15:17-20

Verses 17–20 unbearable. For anyone to be flogged, beaten, spat upon, and subjected to vicious mockery is beyond our comprehension. It must have been a place of intense loneliness. Yet Jesus, God himself, knowingly followed this route. For me. For you. Don’t shrink from this reality. This is part of what it cost for our salvation.

Apply

Draw together every image of mindless violence you’ve witnessed, both fictional and in real life. See Jesus as the victim. Let it penetrate and reduce you to tears.

Closing Prayer

Jesus, really, there in nothing I can remember or imagine that can compare with what you suffered in my place. Help me to respond to your great love for me in ways that bring you glory (edited from Encounter with God).