Washing Hands

²² “What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called the Messiah?” Pilate asked.
They all answered, “Crucify him!”
²³ “Why? What crime has he committed?” asked Pilate.
But they shouted all the louder, “Crucify him!”
²⁴When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. “I am innocent of this man’s blood,” he said. “It is your responsibility!”

Matthew 27:22-24

In 1964, in Kew Gardens, New York, a grievous event unfolded: Kitty Genovese was brutally murdered outside her apartment, her life extinguished through stabbing. During this horrifying act, bystanders observed yet offered no assistance, nor did they call the authorities. This tragic incident led psychologists Bibb Latané and John Darley to explore the phenomenon now known as “The Bystander Effect,” which illuminates the diffusion of responsibility and the sway of social influence. In the case of Genovese, each witness deduced from their neighbors’ lack of action that their intervention was unnecessary.

Reflecting upon Pilate’s predicament, we observe a different but analogous human behavior. Despite understanding the essence of wrongdoing, how often do we find the courage to champion justice? It is all too common to witness pleas for help from charitable organizations—be it for children and families in developing nations or for the preservation of environment and wildlife—and yet, remain passive. For some, fulfilling a monthly donation suffices to absolve themselves of further duty.

Pilate, in cleansing his hands, did not absolve himself of the grave injustice meted out to Jesus; rather, it signified his complicity. The scriptures do not recount any act of repentance from Pilate following Jesus’ crucifixion, nor any expression of regret. Though possibly unsettled by the event, his stance was akin to Judas’ betrayal.

As Romans 3:23 teaches us: “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

Yet, there lies hope in the resurrection of Jesus. Despite humanity’s collective betrayal and sin—Jew and Gentile alike—Jesus bore the cost of our transgressions.

In light of this, how should we then live? Unlike Pilate, who turned away from Jesus, we are called to confront injustice. Embracing God’s grace as our truth compels us to lead lives marked by sacrifice, love, and compassion. Our calling transcends mere observation of suffering; it urges us to extend God’s unconditional love.

May you dwell in God’s mercy, actively serving Him by showing compassion towards others. Let us not be blind or choose blindness, but rather, open our eyes to the breadth, length, height, and depth of God’s love for us, and for our neighbors.