Mark 15:16-20 tells us about a group of soldiers who tortured and humiliated Jesus. Their only command from Pilate was to flog and crucify Jesus. Nevertheless, the soldiers go beyond this command. They make a crown of thorns and place it on Jesus' head. They bow down before Jesus and mock Him saying, "Hail, King of the Jews." The place a purple robe on Him which was a symbol of royalty.
Why did the Roman soldiers act this way? What were they trying to accomplish? It would have been bad enough for them to flog and crucify Jesus, but they go beyond this to totally strip Jesus of any respect. Perhaps they were ensuring that this man who claimed to be a king would get what he deserved for defying the Roman government. And then again, maybe it was a simple act of elevating themselves with the power they possessed.
The action taken by the Roman soldiers still goes on today. There are human beings in the world who use their power to elevate themselves and tread on the lowly.
God calls us through the Scriptures to live with humility and to take our place among the lowly. Indeed, the Apostle Paul says, "Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you."
To possess power is not a sin - in an of itself. However, we are to use our power to bless others and provide for the needs of the powerless. How are you using the gifts of power that God has given you?
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