892) As children, it can be very hard to go against the wishes, beliefs, or values of your peer group; especially for teens. Why? Because everyone wants to be accepted and to fit in with others. This desire doesn’t really change as one moves into adulthood. We still desire acceptance and validation, but have you considered that saying, “No”, is a gift or sacrifice we can make to God?

This saying, “No” doesn’t apply to those who are trying to prove a point or to appear as the rebel. Rather, this is when we clearly know that what is being said or done is not right and refusing to take part.

In Mark 15:1-15, Pilate has the chance to give God the sacrifice of “No!” Jesus is before him and Pilate doesn’t think or feel that Jesus has done anything wrong, or, perhaps, he’s just scared to do anything against Jesus. Whatever his motive, Pilate does not give the sacrifice of saying, “No!” He chooses to fit in with the crowd and lets them decide to do what Pilate clearly knew they would.

Saying, “No!” or refusing to take part in things that are not right is a type of sacrifice we can give to God. As always, sacrifices cost something, but it is worth the price.