S – ¹⁴ Pilate said to them, “Why? What has he done wrong?” 

But they shouted all the more, “Crucify him!” 

¹⁵ Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them; and after having Jesus flogged, he handed him over to be crucified. 

Mark 15:14–15 CSB

O – Pilate takes all the steps possible to release Jesus because he knows of his innocence.  “Wanting to satisfy the crowd” is a mistake.  Pilate is the most powerful man in Jerusalem.  Yet, he is allowing the crowd to direct his actions.

A – It is hard to stand alone.  Leadership is often about making decisions where some are happy and others are not. Today, we have the hindsight to see it was part of God’s overall plan. That is the key for us.  When we know it is God’s plan, we move forward with confidence.

R – Heavenly Father, thank You that You have a will and purpose.  Give us the courage and insight to see and lead.  We invite your Holy Spirit to lead us today in all things.