In the … reign of Tiberius Caesar – when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, Herod tetrarch of Galilee … Philip tetrarch of Iturea and Traconitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene – during the high-priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas …

Luke 3:1-2

Luke’s words are chilling. Tiberius, known for his cruelty: Pilate, for his brutal massacres of Jews: Herod, Philip, Lysanias, bywords for corruption: Annas and Caiaphas, desecrators of their religious calling. Historically accurate, Luke paints a picture of political and religious infamy. And into this maelstrom, came John the Baptist and a carpenter from Nazareth.

Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 18