John 18:12-14

Annas and Caiaphas, James Tissot

The the detachment of soldiers with its commander and the Jewish officials arrested Jesus. They bound Him and brought him first to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year. Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jews that it would be good if one man died for the people.

How much compromising and genuflecting went on among the Jewish leaders to deem it advantageous to adopt the human-blood sacrifices of the pagan religious surrounding them? Caiaphas wants to fit in with his neighbors, forgetting that he is from a chosen nation, chosen to be a blessing to those around him, declaring God doesn't want blood sacrifice but obedience. Caiaphas abandons God's ways for the pagan ways....it would be good....

Oh Lord, protect us from leaders who grovel at the feet of gods which only seek us to serve them. Protect us from leaders who want to "fit in" with the ways of the world. Keep our hearts separate from what looks good but is not Your best.