Friday, March 13, 2009

Consider The Crucifixion

(Luke 23:1-25)

Reflection on this passage and the movie, “The Passion of The Christ” makes me feel very humble. Jesus never veered from the course set for Him. He endured the worst treatment known to man and yet He asked the Father to forgive those who lied about Him and those who had to carry out the orders.

He did all this for us! No one willingly dies for another, yet He did that for you and me.

It was prophecy being fulfilled—Jesus had to die. God worked out the scenario in a unique way. It was necessary for Jesus to go through this; it was God's plan. Jerusalem and the known world had to be redeemed. Yet, Jesus did this voluntarily. Jesus' sacrifice was triumphant; God won out and it was tragic—it cost His life The Father had pre-ordained it—the Old Testament prophecies tell of the story.

Also, it seemed unjust—Jesus Christ was without sin; yet just—there was no other way for God to reach His children. The whole experience caused Jesus' work on earth to be finished; and yet the work was ongoing because Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to guide those who would believe then and for all time.

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

The Crucifixion

(John 19:1-27)

Dear Jesus:
They trumped up charges against You; they were that afraid of You and Your message. You did nothing wrong.

They nailed you on a cross—a fate reserved for the vilest criminal. But You asked God to forgive them.

You became sin for us all, especially me. We all deserve to die and receive punishment for what we have done. Yet, you took our place, even mine.

Your followers watched as You agonized. They felt intense sadness as they heard You crying out; they smelled death the whole time.

But this was God's plan for You. One you wrestled with in Gethsemane and finally yielded to because of Your great love for Your children.

I find I appreciate You more as I walk closer to You. Thank You for accepting God's plan.Amen

Monday, March 9, 2009

Thomas

Thomas, also called Didymus, seems to be remembered for his doubting that Jesus arose. Some Biblical scholars point out all Thomas wanted was the truth.

He wasn't with the other disciples and the followers when Christ appeared to them. Hence his doubt of what he heard.

William Barclay reminds us of the courageous Thomas—he demonstrated love for Jesus when they heard of Lazarus' death. He displayed courage and loyalty when he told the others that they should go to Jerusalem “that we may die with Him.”

God Alone

  Jesus and the children at our church's prayer walk.          I will both lie down in peace and sleep;  For You alone, O LORD make ...