An insightful writer made a sorrowful list of the honors the blinded people of Israel gave to their long-awaited King. First, they gave Him a procession of honor involving Roman soldiers, Jewish priests, and all kinds of people, as He bore His own cross. This was the triumph the world offered to Him who came to defeat humanity's greatest enemies.

His only accolades were mocking shouts, and His only praises were cruel taunts. Second, they presented Him with the wine of honor. Instead of a golden cup of fine wine, they gave Him a stupefying death-draught fit for criminals. He refused it to fully experience the agony of death.

Later, when He said, "I thirst," they offered Him vinegar mixed with gall on a sponge. Such grotesque inhospitality for the Son of the King! Third, His guard of honor reveled in gambling over His clothes, which they seized as loot. This was the bodyguard of heaven's adored—four brutal gamblers. Fourth, a throne of honor was provided on the brutal cross. No gentler place of rest would rebellious men give to their rightful Lord.

The cross perfectly expressed the world's feelings toward Him. "There," they seemed to say, "Son of God, this is how we would treat God Himself, given the chance." Fifth, His title of honor was "King of the Jews," but the nation refused it and effectively called Him "King of thieves" by choosing Barabbas over Him and placing Him between two thieves. The sons of men turned His glory into shame, but it will eternally bring joy to believers and angels.