Taking Responsibility

Psalms 125; Matthew 26-27 

“When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty silver coins to the chief priests and the elders. ‘I have sinned,’ he said, ‘for I have betrayed innocent blood.’ ‘What is that to us?’ they replied. ‘That’s your responsibility.’…When Pilot saw that he was getting nowhere…. he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. ‘I am innocent of this man’s blood,’ he said. ‘It is your responsibility!’”

Matthew 27:3, 4, 24

Both the chief priests and Pilot were quick to assign responsibility for Christ’s betrayal and execution to others.

 As we consider the deceptive nature of sin in our lives, are we too quick to assign responsibility for our actions on either others, or circumstances beyond our control?

David’s clear response to the rebuke of Nathan was, “I have sinned.” This simple statement is rare. The politics of institutions and leadership often make avoiding responsibility an art form.

When was the last time we owned our part in sinful behavior and clearly said so?

Repentance requires taking responsibility for behavior. For the forgiveness of the cross to set us free, we must take responsibility for our sin.

Where is the Lord inviting us to be refreshingly honest?

“…for your glory.”