Pilate’s story is well known, and his place in human history is documented in the most well-read, well-listened-to publication in the world, the Bible. ­Pilate is a good mirror for our souls. Are we like him in any way? What if Christ were to be brought into your metaphorical palace and you were asked by the crowds, “What will you do with Him?” Would you choose your selfish best over Christ, or would you recognize who Jesus the Savior-King is? Would you see Jesus’ innocence as the innocence you need for your sinful life and ask Him for help?

You see, those we read about in the Bible were real people like us. They lived in a different time and place, but the human heart is the same throughout time. We all want to be selfish kings or queens looking out for our good, our desires, our lives. But Christ came to save us from our selfish pursuits and give us identity, forgiveness, and position in Him. Ironically, everything Pilate was trying to protect—his position and identity—he ultimately lost because it was temporary. Christ offers us eternal innocence, a heavenly position in His family, and an eternal palace to call home—the new heaven and new earth. So why turn Him down? Have you chosen Christ over your own temporary, selfish gain? As Jesus said, “What do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?” (Mark 8:36-37).