While Pilate was sitting on the judge’s seat, his wife sent him this message: “Don’t have anything to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him.” But the chief priests and elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas and to have Jesus put to death. “What then should I do with Jesus who is called Christ?” Pilate asked. They all answered, “Crucify Him!”

Have you ever been persuaded to do something wrong by your friends, family, or others you want to impress? Pilate knew that Jesus was innocent of the charges, he was warned by his wife; but, he had already condemned Jesus to die when he released Barabbas. He tried to wash his hands clean, but the deed was already done. Too many of us know the right thing to do, but because of pressure, do otherwise. My brothers and sisters in Christ, soap and water cannot undo the wrongs we have done, only the grace of God.