One for All

Caiaphas, who was high priest (of Israel) at the time, said... "You don't realize that it's better for you that one man should die for the people than for the whole nation to be destroyed."

Two thoughts-
First- Caiaphas, with his "blind eyes" had it right. He was following a basic leadership principle- "You never sacrifice the many for the one, but the one for the many." Although this philosophy sounds simple, it can be difficult to practice. As Christ-followers we are to extend grace and mercy. We're told stories about the "shepherd leaving the ninety-nine to look for the one", "the woman who turned her house upside down to find one lost coin", and "the father who stood at the gate waiting for his lost son to return home" (Luke 15). Can you see the conflict spiritual leaders face, the weight of responsibility, and the wisdom required? Believe me, I know. I understand the need to "seek His will in all I do". (Proverbs 3:6) Do I leave the one to perish to protect the flock? Do I suspend my encouragement of those traveling the narrow way to seek the lost? Yes and yes. The word paradigm comes to mind. I guess I just work harder... or pray harder... (Lord, we're not asking for our burdens to be lighter, but make our backs stronger. -African prayer)

Second- God always wins in the end. Here Caiaphas thought he would simply remove Jesus, please the Jews, and maintain the nation's relationship with the Romans. However, little did he know he would have a small part in a historic world-wide revolution. The death of Jesus might have saved the Jews for a season (think about the events of 70 A.D.), but ultimately His sacrifice would present an opportunity for grace that could save the world.