IV - Jesus is brought Before the Sanhedrin
We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you.
The chief priests with the whole Sanhedrin were busy soliciting testimony
against Jesus that would lead to his death, but they could not find any. Many spoke against him falsely under oath by alleging, “We heard him declare, ‘I will destroy this temple made by human hands,’ and ‘in three days I will construct another, not made by human hands,” but their testimony did not agree. The high priest rose to his feet before the court and began to interrogate Jesus: “Have you no answer to what these men testify against you?” But Jesus remained silent; he made no reply. Once again the high priest interrogated him: “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the blessed One?” Then Jesus answered: “I am; and you will see the son of Man seated at the right hand of the Power and coming with the clouds of heaven.” (Mk 14:55-62)
Merciful Father, the chief priests, having judged Jesus guilty, sought testimony that would lead to his death. Many testified falsely against him.
So often we judge others and like the chief priests, seek reasons to verify our judgments. Remove from our hearts the desire to stand in judgment, and banish from our minds the temptation to speak falsely about others. Give us the wisdom to seek the goodness in all people. We ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Lord Jesus, crucified and risen,
have mercy on us.
Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.