Mark 15:4-5

Pilate asked Jesus again, "Aren't you going to answer anything? That's quite a list of accusations." Still, he said nothing. Pilate was impressed, really impressed.  (The Message)

Reflection by Lillian Daniel

Sometimes the most impressive thing we can say is nothing. Sometimes the most eloquent defense is to remain quiet. Sometimes the most convicting word is the one that remains unspoken.

When Jesus was bombarded by accusations, in the short time he had left before his death, he did not leap to his own defense but remained quiet. And we are told that the corrupt ruler Pontius Pilate was impressed. I imagine he was also amazed. Pilate was used to hearing words used in the service of the ego, and so are we.

We live in a high tech world where there seems to be no escape from words and noise, much of it meaningless. At this midpoint of Holy Week, let’s listen to Jesus’ example of silence in the face of his accusers.

The next time you want to be defensive or answer back, instead let the silence hang between you and the sea of words we swim in. Let your silence ring in the air.

Be quiet. Someone may just listen to you.

Prayer

Silence. And then . . . Amen.

About the Author Lillian Daniel is the senior minister of the First Congregational Church, UCC, Glen Ellyn, Illinois. She is the author, with Martin Copenhaver, of This Odd and Wondrous Calling: the Public and Private Lives of Two Ministers.

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