Why Do We Say It?

I wrote this a few years ago. I think it's good to ask myself the same question from time to time:
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Therefore Pilate . . . summoned Jesus and said to Him, “Are You the King of the Jews?” Jesus answered, “Are you saying this on your own initiative, or did others tell you about Me?” (John 18:33-34)

Why do we believe Jesus is King?

And Lord?

Because our parents told us it’s so?

Our teachers? Pastors?

Books we’ve read?

Homilies we’ve heard?

Or do we believe Jesus is King,

and Lord,

because we’ve met Him.

Because we know Him.

Because we speak with Him.

Believing ‘in’ Jesus is not the same as

believing Jesus.

Trusting ‘in’ Jesus is not the same as

trusting Jesus.

Which is why what the Lord asked of Pilate

He asks also of you and me:

“Do you call Me King,

and Lord,

on your own initiative?

Or because of what others have told you of Me?”