As they led him away, they seized a man, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him, and made him carry it behind Jesus. On the whole, you’d have to say that Simon of Cyrene is a bit player in the larger narrative we call the Passion of our Lord. Who...

So Pilate gave his verdict that their demand should be granted. He released the man they asked for, the one who had been put in prison for insurrection and murder, and he handed Jesus over as they wished. He has the power of life and death. Pilate, that is. It is his decision, his call, his...

Then they all shouted out together, “Away with this fellow! Release Barabbas for us!” (This was a man who had been put in prison for an insurrection that had taken place in the city, and for murder.) Pilate, wanting to release Jesus, addressed them again; but they kept shouting,...

Pilate then called together the chief priests, the leaders, and the people, and said to them, “You brought me this man as one who was perverting the people; and here I have examined him in your presence and have not found this man guilty of any of your charges against him. Neither has Herod,...

That same day Herod and Pilate became friends with each other; before this they had been enemies. It’s just a small detail in the larger story, I know. But I think it’s important. Apparently Herod and Pilate had been enemies. Not hard to imagine, frankly. Two political leaders, both vying...

When Herod saw Jesus, he was very glad, for he had been wanting to see him for a long time, because he had heard about him and was hoping to see him perform some sign. He questioned him at some length, but Jesus gave him no answer. The chief priests and the scribes stood by, vehemently...