Pilate, wanting to release Jesus, addressed them again; but they kept shouting, “Crucify, crucify him!”

Luke 23:20-21

a cross and a window

Pontius Pilate wanted to release Jesus because he had found no wrong committed by Him.  However, he was then pressured by public opinion from the masses present, and he changed his mind.  He sent an innocent man to a gruesome death on the cross.  Why did he change his mind?  What does this say about his leadership style, his beliefs, and how he makes a decision?

I would like to believe that every decision I make is based on a set of core values and guiding principles.  I would also like to believe that I’m not swayed so easily by public opinion.  However, upon reflecting on this, I know there have been times in my life when I made decisions with a selfish intent or I changed my mind to fit in with the group.  It’s clear I didn’t include God when making those decisions. 

It’s important for me to take a step back every now and again and to just think about my recent decisions.  Why did I make that decision?  What was my actual intent?  Did I honestly stick to my beliefs when making that decision?  Did I include God in the decision? 

JJ Kaufmann