The Crowning with Thorns

"Ecce Homo," that is, "Behold the Man," Pilate said to the crowd that had gathered to witness the proceedings against Jesus. At that moment, Jesus was brought forth wearing the crown of thorns. In a bizarre twist of irony, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords was being acknowledged and mocked at the same time. He Who is the Word through Whom the universe was created was being rejected and given recognition in one and the same action.

The Mystery of Who Jesus Is and how He relates to human history is the heart of the Gospel. Each event that is recounted tells the whole story for those who have eyes to see it. "Behold the Man" shows us who we are. Jesus reveals God and He reveals us to ourselves. The crown points to His capacity to rule over all His creatures. The thorns imply our rejection of His sovereignty. And yet, the crown of thorns implies that He rules over us even in our efforts to separate ourselves from His power. His suffering is for us.

As we admit our sinfulness and weakness, we are put into contact with the strength and grace of the Lord Who frees us. When we look upon Him Whom we have rejected, we acknowledge His Kingship over us. Our sorrow at His plight, caused by our own choices, becomes a motive for care and concern for all who are left out. We see humanity in need of redemption, and we choose to cooperate with the only source of salvation, Christ the King.