Windows to Wonder: Week 5 Cross Stitch Along – Stitching Through the Trial of Jesus

Welcome to Week 5 of the Windows to Wonder cross-stitch stitch along for Lent 2025! Download the fifth pattern reveal by clicking on the file under this paragraph.

Windows to Wonder Week 5.pdf

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This week, our journey brings us to John 19:1-16, where Pontius Pilate finds himself caught in a web of authority, fear, and justice. Under pressure from religious leaders and the looming power of Rome, Pilate wrestles with a decision that carries immense weight. He knows Jesus is innocent, yet fear of political repercussions sways him. In contrast, Jesus remains steadfast—His love for us unwavering, even unto death. This was always how the story was going to unfold.

In the crowd stands Nicodemus, once an advocate for fairness. But despite his efforts, he now witnesses a failure of justice, a feeling that resonates with anyone who has watched systems falter despite their best intentions.

Integrating Contemplation with this Cross Stitch Along

This week’s stitching invites us to reflect deeply on these themes:

• Intentional Stitching – Pay attention to the rhythm of your needle. With each stitch, consider the moments in life when you seek recognition versus when you act out of a higher purpose.

• Holy Imagination – Place yourself in the scene. Where do you stand? Are you speaking up, or watching in silence? Who is beside you?

• Grappling with Helplessness – Like Nicodemus, we have all faced moments where we felt powerless. As you stitch, reflect on a time when you felt helpless. How did God guide you through?

Engage with Scripture – Read or listen to John 19:1-16 and ponder:

• Where in your life do you feel pressured to compromise your values out of fear?

• How do you respond when justice fails despite systems meant to uphold it?

• Jesus acknowledges a higher authority beyond Pilate—how might that truth bring you peace when earthly power feels overwhelming?

Listen & Reflect – Join Pastors Tina, Angel, and Laura on our companion podcast as they explore John 19:1-16 and the challenge of holding onto faith when we feel powerless. The episode drops March 31, 2025.

As we stitch together, may this pattern be more than just thread on fabric—may it be a pathway to truth, courage, and faith.