John 19:17-30

And carrying the cross by himself, he went out to what is called The Place of the Skull, which in Hebrew is called Golgotha. There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, with Jesus between them. Pilate also had an inscription written and put on the cross. It read, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.” Many of the Jews read this inscription, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, in Latin, and in Greek.

INRI is an abbreviation using the first initials of the Latin phrase Iēsus Nazarēnus, Rēx Iūdaeōrum, which translates into English as “Jesus Nazarene, King of the Jews.” During Jesus’ crucifixion, this phrase was written in wood and placed above Jesus’ head. Today, these letters are often seen stylized in crucifixes typically depicted above the head of Jesus. It is a symbol that reminds us of this part of the crucifixion story, but also the lordship of Jesus Christ.

Prayer

King of Kings, we give You thanks for Your leadership in our lives. You offer us a way to live that is not always easy, but it is never a journey that we take alone. You are always with us, surrounding us with love, blessings, and joy. Strengthen us today to see our opportunities to share the good news of Your love and constant companionship. Amen.