Imani Deas
- Kjelder
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Jesus did not back down when everyone else abandoned him.
Hi, my name is Imani Deas. I am 24 years old and originally from Marietta, Georgia. I moved to Louisiana to pursue law school, and during this journey, I have been warmly welcomed by the congregation at St. Albans. I have been attending since October 2024 and am involved in the graduate ministries, which has been an incredible source of support as we all strive to complete our degrees in higher education.
Today's devotional is based on:
"When Jesus had received the wine, he said, "It is finished." Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.”–John 19:30
Devotional
John 18:1–19:42 is one of the most pivotal moments in the story of Jesus.To me, it is the epitome of what it means to stand alone, of remaining true to what you know is right, even when you are surrounded by people who either cannot see the truth or refuse to acknowledge what is right in front of them.
In Peter, we see a very human struggle. Even though Jesus already knew Peter would deny Him, Peter still had a choice in those moments. He knew who Jesus was. He had walked with Him, learned from Him, and loved Him. Yet, under the pressure of public scrutiny and fear, he folded. His story is a reminder of how easy it is to lose courage in the face of pressure and how important it is to remain rooted in our faith and convictions.
Pilate reflects a similar weakness, but from a different position. He clearly recognized that there was no valid charge against Jesus. He saw the truth. Yet, when faced with the weight of public opinion and political pressure, he also gave in. Like Peter, he chose what was easier over what was right.
And yet, in the midst of all this human weakness, Jesus stands completely different. This is what makes the story so powerful, so beautiful. While others wavered, denied, and gave in, Jesus remained steady. He stepped forward willingly. He embraced what was ahead of Him, knowing the cost. His actions reveal the depth of His love: a love so great that He chose suffering, so that we would never have to carry ours alone.
Jesus didn’t just endure the cross, he walked toward it.
