I have a confession to make. I have downplayed an act that is demeaning and hate filled. It is in the Crucifixion story.

Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole Roman cohort around Him. And they stripped Him and put a scarlet robe on Him. And after weaving a crown of thorns, they put it on His head, and a reed in His right hand: and they kneeled down before Him and mocked Him, saying, “Hail King of the Jews!” And they spat on Him, and took the reed and began to beat Him on the head. And after they had mocked Him, they took His robe off and put His garments on Him, and led Him away to crucify Him. (Matthew 27:27-31) NASB

Now I hurt in my heart for the scourging Jesus endured. The crown of thorns pushed into His flesh. The mocking and laughing broke my heart. Then the crucifixion. Why was the fact they spit on Him included? It seems minor compared to everything else He endured.

Please forgive how gross this description is going to be.

One Sunday Baxter and I were on the way to church. We crossed Hwy 74 in Monroe. We were on Morgan Mill Road. Just as we got to the other side of Hwy 74, a man in a big black truck spit down on Baxter’s window. It was awful. Nasty. Sick. Intentional. At least it seemed so, judging by the look of satisfaction on the man’s face.

It was then I knew. That act of spitting on our Savior was just as despicable as everything else He endured that day. The contempt shown for His person was astounding. That He endured it, even more astounding.

What shame I felt. Regret filled my heart for downplaying anything Jesus endured. I am so grateful I can walk this life with a dear Savior who cares enough to correct me.