The soldiers led Jesus away into the palace (that is, the Praetorium) and called together the whole company of soldiers. They put a purple robe on him, then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on him. And they began to call out to him, “Hail, king of the Jews!” Again and again they struck him on the head with a staff and spit on him. Falling on their knees, they paid homage to him. And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him out to crucify him.

What we see in Jesus’ treatment by the Roman soldiers is a shocking display of raw, savage brutality. The Gospels tell us he was repeatedly struck on the head with a staff and mercilessly whipped. The weapon used was likely the Roman flagrum—also known as the Cat of Nine Tails—a whip made of multiple cords embedded with sharp metal, bone shards, and nails. Each strike would have torn into his flesh, shredding his skin.

This is the horrific torture Jesus endured — though completely sinless — to pay the price for our sins.

It reveals not only the cruelty of the Roman system and its disregard for human life, but also gives us a sobering glimpse of what a life disconnected from God can look like.

For me, it’s a powerful warning: to always value human life, even when I disagree with someone. To treat others with dignity and respect, even when they’ve done wrong. Justice matters—but so do compassion and discretion. People are to be presumed innocent until proven guilty. Humanity must never be lost in our pursuit of what’s right.

And above all, this reminds me of the depth of Jesus’ commitment to fulfill his mission from God. He endured unthinkable suffering to rescue sinners like me. What an incredible hero. What a Savior. He is worthy of my complete devotion.

Lord, thank you for loving us so deeply that you went through such pain to set us free. I belong to you—always. Grow me in your grace and in your love.